No abstract

Byrne's Repression-Sensitization scale was used to assign 164 college males to represser, neutral, or sensitizer groups. Scores from measures of verbal ability, social intelligence, sex knowledge, quantitative ability, and scholastic grades were also obtained. Sensitizers, who use such defenses as intellectualization, rumination, and approach, were hypothesized to score higher on selected intellectual measures than repressers who use repression, denial, and avoidance. The results were opposite to those hypothesized, with repressers significantly exceeding sensitizers on 6 of 12 measures, using t tests. Sensitizers did not significantly exceed repressers on any of the measures. When verbal aptitude was held constant through covariance, the groups did not differ. It was concluded that repressers exceed sensitizers on verbal aptitude and that other obtained differences are artifacts of this variable.

Purpose The purpose of this study is to examine the lived experiences of current or recent research fellows holding a prestigious research fellowship, and are based in a research-intensive university in the UK. The authors of this study explored the challenges and opportunities that come with the transition of these individuals from a postdoctoral position to a fellowship. Design/methodology/approach Using a qualitative research method and through semi-structured interviews with a purposively selected sample, this research attempts to interpret the lived experiences of four research fellows by making sense of their narratives and reflections on their roles through their career development and the pursuit of research independence in their field. Findings Three themes were identified following the analysis of the data collected, namely, the freedom to explore, managing relationships and serendipity. The emphasis on achieving research independence, with the first signs of independence appearing from their postdoctoral years, was stated as an important factor in the career development of the research fellow. Gaining legitimacy and membership to multiple communities of practice simultaneously appeared to be a productive yet challenging developmental experience. Originality/value While attention in recently published output has been given to the professional development of research students and postdoctoral staff, exploring the views of research fellows remains an under-researched area in the field of researcher development. This qualitative study aims to start a discussion by exploring the lived experiences of this select group as they explain their identity-trajectory in research and pursue their aspirations towards achieving an academic post.