If it is psychology then yes (as long as they meet the criteria)! Easier to recruit students than "normal" people. You should maybe ask your supervisor.

It is going better now. My supervisor isn't the most approachable person - that was the problem. Talking with academics had never been a problem, until I encountered my sup (and decided to do my PHD under their supervision, lol!) But it is fine now. I just ignore the vibes and get on with it. Preparing more so I felt more confident helped. Thanks for the advice. :-) :-)

Just to add to others... My PhD was pre-planned and we've just changed it. It was also connected to a larger project (whole set of related projects). As long as the titles stays the same it should be OK, or so I've heard.

Some ideas...
Can you present her with concrete problems you are having and ask for concrete support (you identify what support)? Or concrete reasons as to why it is "impossible" and what you suggest instead (a mid tier journal). I suggest that you pretend to have respect/confidence in her... otherwise she may sense it and be even more unhelpful...

You say the job "feels right". And good prospects not as likely/easily attainable if you take the PhD route. It sounds like both your logic and instinct are saying take the job. In my humble opinion, only if you absolutely beyond anything want to do the PhD should you do it.

Thanks. I am gonna try this! Will let you know how it goes!

Another question... I'm a new PhD student. Unfortunately, I don't seem to have a great communication going with my supervisor. Is it normal not to be talking about your research ideas, what you've read etc, with the supervisor? It doesn't seem so to me... seems a wasted opportunity. My supervisor doesn't seem to invite it. It is a bit like sitting with a brick wall or very unapproachable person! Maybe I am just not being forthcoming enough. What are other people's experiences?

Hello everyone
I am new here. I am in the initial stages of my PhD. The broad area is psychology. I wanted to ask people who are a bit (or a lot) further along than I am how their PhD developed from their initial proposal. How much did the plan of studies and details change once you had read further into your research area? Also if anyone has any tips about getting the ownership of their project then that would be very much appreciated also.