Factors Related to the Impostor Phenomenon in Psychology Doctoral Students

The purpose of this study was to investigate the Impostor Phenomenon's (IP's) relationship to perfectionistic cognitions, depression, anxiety, achievement motives, self-efficacy, self-compassion, and self-esteem in clinical and counseling psychology doctoral students. Further, this study sought to investigate how IP interferes with academic, practicum, and internship performance of these students and how IP manifests throughout a psychology doctoral program. Eighty-four clinical and counseling psychology doctoral students responded to an online survey. The data was analyzed using a Pearson's productmoment correlation and a multiple linear regression. Perhaps the most striking finding of the study is that 88% of students in the sample reported at least moderate feelings of the IP. This study also found significant positive correlations between the IP and perfectionistic cognitions, depression, anxiety, and self-compassion. In addition, as anticipated, one significant negative correlation emerged with achievement motives. Further, seven variables statistically significantly predicted feelings of the IP, with perfectionistic cognitions, depression, and achievement motives, adding statistical significance to the prediction. These findings add to existing literature regarding how IP manifests itself and impacts psychology doctoral student academic success. Further continued investigations will help educators and trainers understand more clearly how students are affected by the IP. Faculty and clinical supervisors should take a supportive approach to assist students to diminish feelings of the IP and enhance their competence and confidence to provide effective services to their clients.