Impostor syndrome

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Angelou at Clinton inauguration

Impostor Syndrome is a psychological pattern in which an individual doubts their accomplishments and has a persistent internalized fear of being exposed as a "fraud", despite external evidence of their competence. Those experiencing this phenomenon struggle with believing that they deserve their success, attributing their achievements to luck or interpretive error rather than their own effort or ability.

Overview

Impostor Syndrome was first identified by psychologists Pauline Rose Clance and Suzanne Imes in 1978. They initially observed it among high-achieving women, though later research has shown that it affects both men and women equally across various professions and backgrounds. It is not officially recognized as a mental disorder by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) or the International Classification of Diseases (ICD), but it is acknowledged as a specific form of intellectual self-doubt.

Symptoms and Manifestations

Symptoms of Impostor Syndrome can include, but are not limited to:

• Persistent feelings of inadequacy
• Fear of being exposed as a fraud
• Attributing success to luck or to deceiving others into thinking they are more intelligent than they perceive themselves to be
• Sabotaging one's own success or setting very challenging goals and feeling disappointed when failing to meet them

Individuals with Impostor Syndrome often suffer from anxiety, stress, low self-confidence, and sometimes depression. These feelings can affect various aspects of life, including academics, professional life, and personal relationships.

Causes

The causes of Impostor Syndrome are not fully understood, but researchers believe it can result from a combination of personality traits (such as perfectionism), family upbringing, behavioral causes, and societal pressures. Certain environments that emphasize competition and where the individual's achievements are highly visible or scrutinized can also exacerbate feelings of being an impostor.

Impact

Impostor Syndrome can significantly impact an individual's career trajectory, educational pursuits, and personal development. It may lead to overworking, stress-related health issues, avoidance of additional responsibilities, and reluctance to apply for promotions or jobs.

Coping Mechanisms

Coping strategies for dealing with Impostor Syndrome include:

• Acknowledging the feelings and discussing them with trusted friends, mentors, or professionals
• Developing a more realistic assessment of abilities and achievements
• Focusing on learning and growth rather than perfection
• Celebrating successes and understanding that perfection is an unrealistic goal

In Popular Culture

Impostor Syndrome has been referenced in various forms of media and literature, reflecting its relevance across different sectors of society. It is often discussed in the context of workplace dynamics, educational settings, and within creative industries.

See Also

• Self-efficacy
• Perfectionism (psychology)
• Social anxiety
• Self-esteem