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How detailed should I talk of my research interest in SOP


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Hello, fellow GradCafe members!

I am currently preparing my SOP for clinical psychology program applications. I have a very good idea of what I would like to pursue for my Master's research. Should I be specific or broad in outlining my research interests for my SOP. I don't want to sound naive, but I fear that it could potentially be stolen, or alternatively, it could put off potential POIs given it's possible incompatibility with there research. Thank you for the help! 

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If there aren’t faculty with compatible research interests, why are you applying to that program? The match doesn’t have to be exact, but you will need to put together a committee who can mentor you through the dissertation process and evaluate the final product.

In terms of how specific - I think the more specific you can be, the better. I found it helpful to create a “funneled” statement that started broad and got specific. 

BROAD: I’m interested in understanding how stigma or social disadvantage affects access to health care,

LESS BROAD: particularly in terms of how patients seek out health resources, how providers offer health resources, and how patients and providers communicate.

SPECIFIC: Specifically, I am interested in how these issues affect access to birth control and abortion care.

I also included a final paragraph about where I want my career to go where I talked about a couple of specific research questions or goals I would like to pursue. The committee wants to see a sense of direction because it says you’ve really thought about this.

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