The Imposter Phenomenon (AKA Imposter Syndrome)

While stereotype threat makes individuals feel that they must prove that they belong, the imposter phenomenon makes individuals feel that they do not belong (Edwards, 2019). The imposter phenomenon occurs when high-achieving individuals fail to internalize their success and accomplishments, have self-doubt that they belong where they are, and fear being exposed as an imposter (Kolligian Jr. & Sternberg, 1991). Even incredibly successful people such as Maya Angelou, Albert Einstein, Tom Hanks, Michelle Obama, and John Steinbeck have reported experiencing some level of the imposter phenomenon (Shankar & Cokley, 2021). Even incredibly successful people such as Maya Angelou, Albert Einstein, Tom Hanks, Michelle Obama, and John Steinbeck have reported experiencing some level of the imposter phenomenon. People experiencing the imposter phenomenon perceive that their successes are due to external factors (i.e. luck, getting help from others etc.) while they view their failures as evidence that they do not belong in their current position. While it can be experienced by anyone, the imposter phenomenon appears to be more common in FG students (Peteet et al., 2015), women, and racial minorities (Bravata et al., 2020), when compared with White male continuing generation students. Importantly, many of those with imposter syndrome also struggle with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, psychological distress, and/or survival guilt (Cokley et al., 2017). Minority and first-generation students may be predisposed to imposter syndrome due to financial concerns, discrimination, and negative stereotypes (Ewing et al., 1996). Those with imposter syndrome may even come to resent their peers who seem to be doing better than themselves (Cokley et al., 2013). Students with imposter syndrome are anxious about their academic performance and fear being harshly evaluated or judged by their professors, both of which lead to increased pressure and reduced confidence (Chapman, 2017). Many of those experiencing imposter syndrome feel isolated and that their experiences are unique (Matthews & Clance, 1985). Even those who know they have imposter syndrome and understand what it is may continue to experience its effects (Edwards, 2019).