Imposter Phenomenon–Recognizing, Managing, and Preventing

The imposter phenomenon (IP) is the belief that you are a fraud or not good enough, a sense of non-belonging, and the fear of being discovered as a fraud resulting in one being removed or fired. IP is more common for BIPOCBIPOC learners, for first-generation college learners, in the early stages of professional identity creation, and for academics early in their careers. In this chapter, using the case of Maria as an illustration, we will explore the features and potential predictors of IP as well as IP in counselor education faculty. Additionally, we will discuss ways to manage IP at the intrapersonal, interpersonal, and institutional levels with recommendations for implementing formal mentorshipMentorship programs.