Imposter syndrome: Spotting the signs and types and learning how to tackle it
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Imposter syndrome (IS) is a term that has gained prominence in recent years as awareness around mental health in the workplace has increased. While not an official diagnosis, IS is a phenomenon that is often accompanied by feelings of self-doubt, inadequacy, and fear of being exposed as a fraud despite evidence of success. It can manifest in various ways and affect individuals from all walks of life, but research suggests that it is more prevalent in marginalized communities, with women and LGBTQ+ individuals being more likely to experience it.
Origin and Evolution of Imposter Syndrome
The concept of imposter syndrome was first coined in 1978 by psychologists who noticed a pattern among high-achieving women who felt undeserving of their success. Originally known as the “imposter phenomenon,” it has since evolved into a recognized psychological phenomenon that affects individuals across genders and professions. The persistent feeling of being a fraud or impostor, despite external validation and accomplishments, is a hallmark of IS.
Research indicates that up to 90% of working adults have experienced imposter syndrome at some point in their careers. The feeling of self-doubt and fear of being exposed as a fraud can be particularly debilitating for individuals who are considered high performers or who belong to marginalized communities. LGBTQ+ individuals, in particular, are more likely to experience IS compared to their cis-het counterparts, with bisexual and non-binary individuals reporting high rates of impostor syndrome.
Types of Imposters and Their Characteristics
Dr. Valerie Young, an expert in imposter syndrome, has identified five distinct types of imposters based on their behaviors and thought patterns:
1. The Perfectionist: Obsesses over the “how” of their work and sees any minor flaw as a failure.
2. The Expert: Focuses on the “how much” of their knowledge and skills, feeling inadequate if they don’t know everything.
3. The Soloist: Believes that success must come from their efforts alone and struggles to ask for help.
4. The Natural Genius: Expects instant success and feels shame when they have to learn or struggle with new tasks.
5. The Superhuman: Juggles multiple roles and responsibilities, feeling inadequate if they can’t excel in every aspect of their life.
Recognizing and Addressing Imposter Syndrome
For individuals struggling with imposter syndrome, recognizing the signs and taking proactive steps to address them is key to overcoming these feelings of self-doubt and inadequacy. Seeking support from colleagues, mentors, or support networks can provide guidance and encouragement, while practicing self-compassion and celebrating personal achievements can help boost self-esteem.
Business leaders also play a crucial role in creating psychologically safe environments where employees feel comfortable sharing their vulnerabilities and seeking help when needed. Promoting a healthy work-life balance, celebrating successes, and fostering growth through mentoring and coaching initiatives can help combat imposter syndrome in the workplace.
By raising awareness about imposter syndrome, recognizing its impact on mental health, and taking steps to address it, individuals and organizations can create a more inclusive and supportive work environment where everyone can thrive.
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Imposter Syndrome
