Degree Date
9-2026
Document Type
Dissertation - Public Access
Degree Name
Psy.D. Doctor of Clinical Psychology
Academic Discipline
Clinical Psychology
First Advisor
Lucia Lopez, PsyD
Second Advisor
Jason Beers, PsyD
Third Advisor
Derrick Sebree, PsyD
Abstract
This study examined the relationship between perceived social support and academic self-efficacy, or academic confidence, among Black doctoral students in psychology programs at predominantly White institutions (PWIs). Grounded in self-efficacy theory, the study was designed to explore whether perceived social support was associated with and predictive of students’ academic confidence. A quantitative, cross-sectional design was used, and data were collected using adapted versions of the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) and the Academic Self-Efficacy (ASE) scale. The sample consisted of 60 Black doctoral students enrolled in psychology programs at PWIs across the United States. Descriptive statistics indicated the participants endorsed moderate levels of perceived social support and academic self-efficacy. Results from Pearson correlation analysis revealed a statistically significant positive relationship between perceived social support and academic self-efficacy. However, results from a simple linear regression analysis indicated perceived social support was not a statistically significant predictor of academic self-efficacy. The findings indicate that though perceived social support is related to academic confidence, it may not independently account for variations in academic self-efficacy among Black doctoral students. Results highlight the importance of considering additional factors, including internal psychological resources and culturally affirming academic environments, when examining student outcomes. Implications for leaders of higher education institutions and future research are discussed, with an emphasis on the need for more comprehensive and culturally responsive approaches to supporting Black doctoral students.
Recommended Citation
Hall, Asia A., "Examining the Impact of Social Support on Academic Self-Efficacy in Black Doctoral Students in Psychology" (2026). Dissertations. 1024.
https://digitalcommons.nl.edu/diss/1024