ABSTRACT
Research on doctoral degree completion reveals surprising data. Of the students enrolled in US doctoral degree programs, 50% will not complete their degree, and many of those will drop out in their first year of study (Jairam & Kahl, Jr., 2012). This attrition rate is well documented in the literature (Ali & Kohun, 2007; Esping, 2010; Lovitts & Nelson, 2000). Though several internal and external contributing factors have been identified, two major factors are stress and the feelings of social isolation (Ali & Kohun, 2007; Jairam & Kahl, Jr., 2012). Not surprisingly, “social support” has been found to mitigate the effects of stress and social isolation. This can be the support provided by academic peers, family, friends, and/or faculty and assume numerous types, including emotional, professional, and practical (Jairam & Kahl, 2012).
