A friend is a light shining in the darkness: An autoethnography on the role of critical friends during my doctoral thesis

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21142/DES-1802-2026-e0047

Keywords:

Research training, peer relationships, Support network

Abstract

Introduction: This article examines the role of the critical friend in the formation of researchers through an autoethnography based on a doctoral experience in Latin America. While the literature has largely emphasized the figure of the mentor as the central guide in research training, this relational role has received limited attention. Objective: The aim of this study is to explore how the critical friend contributes to formative, methodological, and ethical support during the research training process. Methodology: An autoethnographic approach supported by a visual diary was employed, allowing for the articulation of personal, relational, and academic dimensions and understanding research as an intellectual, emotional, and situated process. Results: In the absence of a mentor throughout my development as a researcher, two critical friends emerged. With Marili, the relationship involved negotiating between critique and unconditional support, learning to sustain discomfort without breaking the bond. With Miguel, empathic listening and collaborative reflexivity supported methodological and ethical decision-making. Conclusion: The critical friend emerges as a key relational figure in researcher training, expanding traditional forms of academic accompaniment.

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Author Biography

  • Kathia Rebeca Arreola Rodríguez, Universidad de San Andrés

    Licenciada en Psicología por la Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, magíster en Psicología Cognitiva y del Aprendizaje por FLACSO y la UAM, y doctora en Educación por la Universidad de San Andrés. Su trabajo se centra en analizar la enseñanza de la investigación a nivel de pregrado en América Latina, a través de estudios narrativos y el uso de métodos creativos. En redes sociales está como: https://www.instagram.com/llama.cualitativa/ 

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Published

2026-06-22

How to Cite

A friend is a light shining in the darkness: An autoethnography on the role of critical friends during my doctoral thesis. (2026). Desde El Sur, 18(2), e0047. https://doi.org/10.21142/DES-1802-2026-e0047