From neophyte to expert: the socialization of nursing faculty as researchers

The concept of socialization provides a useful framework for describing the difficult transition from being a neophyte researcher to becoming an expert. Individuals are often not aware of the complexity of the research process and perceive their struggles and conflicting feelings as unique. Recognition that one's feelings can ease distress and facilitate the development of the researcher and, ultimately, facilitate the advancement of nursing science. The socialization of faculty nurse researchers can be viewed as including four stages: dependence, negative independence, independence and mutuality, and interdependence. Progression through the stages is characterized by the development of a strong sense of self and expertise as a researcher. The individual emerges with feelings of zest and enthusiasm for the role and with competence and integrity as a researcher.