Advisee nondisclosures in doctoral-level advising relationships.

Abstract

Using a sample of 109 doctoral-level advisees, we examined the content of and reasons for advisee nondisclosures and the relationships between these variables and advising relationship and satisfaction. Discovery-oriented qualitative analyses revealed several themes related to content of advisee nondisclosures (e.g., self-efficacy) and reasons for these nondisclosures (e.g., fear of damaging advising relationship). Quantitative analyses revealed advisor–advisee rapport was related to advisee fears of being perceived as unprofessional, and identification with advisor was related to advisor’s availability and dependability. Unclear advisor expectations, lack of support, and unavailability of the advisor were all related to satisfaction with the advising relationship.