Álvarez, M., Castelló, M., Elexpuru, I., Villardón, L., Yániz, C. (submitted). Why research is perfo

There is virtually no knowledge regarding what research means for researchers in training in the Spanish context. This study has a twofold goal: to analyze the conceptions of PhD students in the Social Sciences regarding research, and the relations of those conceptions with several relevant variables in the process of researcher training. 1082 students from 56 Spanish universities participated in this study. They answered a questionnaire on conceptions, commitment, interest for research, relationship with the scientific community, and stress. PhD students conceptualize research mainly as a process oriented activity both towards making a contribution to the community and towards personal development; additionally, albeit less often, they conceptualize it as a product: papers published for others to read.