The invisible support networks of doctoral candidates: What acknowledgement sections of doctoral theses reveal

Although some argue that acknowledgement sections should not form part of doctoral theses, others welcome such and are the opinion they reflect original personal contributions, constituting a neglected genre. Previous research on texts have focused more their linguistic characteristics as related to academic writing theses. The present study, however, inquired into from social support perspective. aim study was bring light dimension milieu its importance in supporting students successfully achieving doctorate. More specifically, sought investigate role “significant others” success reflected genres theses by analysing 30 completed South Africa Israel. Follow-up interviews with graduates assisted probe deeper meaning texts. limited nature, found that, based who acknowledge, several role-players supporters seem contribute success. This includes family members, friends, colleagues, supervisors, funders university administrators. What also became clear candidates rely mainly psycho-social forms particular kinds crucial at different stages journey. Acknowledgement studies confirm process an activity stream integrates personal, interpersonal institutional reveal mostly hidden, but very important, influences