Work

The impact of imposter phenomenon: an unmet need in the education of healthcare personnel- a cross-sectional study

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Imposter Phenomenon (IP) is a phenomenon characterised by self-doubt and fear of exposure by peers as a fraud. We aimed to assess the frequency and the severity of IP in medical personnel. METHODS: A cross-sectional, descriptive study, the participants were recruited from Haukeland University Hospital, and Western Norway University of Applied Science. The Clance Imposter syndrome scale (CIPS) was implemented to verify the presence and severity of IP. RESULTS: A total of 116 health personnel were recruited, 62 physicians and 54 nurses. IP was identified in 89% of participants, 60% with significant to intense degree. IP was significantly more prevalent in females as compared to males and was identified in 82% and 90% of physicians and nurses respectively. IP severity decreased with increasing experience. CONCLUSION: The majority of our study population had some degree of IP, highlighting the need to address IP both in pre-and post-graduate education of health personnel.

Source: BMC Medical Education

DOI: 10.1186/s12909-025-08349-3

Authors: Ida Marie Heggem, Gabriela Wale Soto, Hans Jørgen Guthe, Omar Hikmat

Institutions: Haukeland University Hospital, University of Bergen, Western Norway University of Applied Sciences

Language: English

Topic: Perfectionism, Procrastination, Anxiety Studies

Subfield: Clinical Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,990