Emotions Impeding Your Dissertation Success?
When conducting dissertation research, many doctoral candidates experience a wide range of emotions that can either inspire progress or significantly impede it. It is therefore reasonable, and necessary to consider the extent to which cognitive (intellectual) processes are related to emotional responses. Research has consistently shown that (a) cognitive activities and their material basis, the brain, have a long evolutionary history; (b) cognitive capacities evolved alongside the development of the brain; and (c) cognition and emotion are deeply and inextricably connected.
The examples in the table below illustrate how specific stimuli, such as, a threat from an enemy or engagement in dissertation research, initiate a cognitive interpretation by the brain (e.g., danger or difficulty). These interpretations are often rooted in unawareness and are subsequently followed by introspective emotional states such as fear, sadness, or despair. Importantly, emotion is not an endpoint; it represents only one stage in a chain of reactions that, with certain probabilities, culminates in actions designed to influence outcomes.
Sequence of Events Related to the Development of an Emotion
| Stimulus Event | Reasoning | Feeling | Action | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Threat by Enemy | Sense danger | Fear / Anger | Run / Fight | Protection / Survival |
| Loss of Parent | Isolated / Alone | Sadness / Emptiness | Cry for help | Assistance |
| Dissertation Research | Difficult / Confusing | Despair / Hopelessness | Seek direction | Completion / Graduation |
When behaviors are effective, they result in protection, support, or problem resolution; whether through personal action or assistance from others, such as professionals, mentors, or dissertation coaches. Thus, emotion should not be understood merely as how one feels about a stimulus, but rather as a complex, adaptive chain of cognitive, affective, and behavioral processes that serve an important functional purpose, particularly during periods of crisis or high cognitive demand.
Research further suggests that aspects of this emotional chain can be blocked, altered, or distorted, often leading to maladaptive outcomes. A lack of awareness and regulation of these processes frequently results in poor emotional control, which can directly undermine progress, especially in complex, high-stakes projects such as the doctoral dissertation.
Most doctoral candidates have invested substantial time, effort, and financial resources in pursuit of their degree. Yet, it is during the dissertation phase that many stall or disengage altogether. With appropriate guidance, structure, and motivation, this outcome is avoidable.
I specialize in helping doctoral candidates successfully complete and defend high-quality Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods dissertation studies. If you believe you would benefit from structured guidance, accountability, and expert support to ensure that your investment in yourself pays off, I encourage you to reach out.
I am a full-time, one-on-one dissertation coach, and I am confident I can help you succeed.
Kind regards,
Dr. D. Chris Alleyne
Dissertation & Academic Coach (16 Years Experience)
DBA-ISM | MBA-TM | BSBA-PM
Statistics • All Research Designs • Dissertation Expertise