Work

Reconceptualizing the impostor phenomenon as an occupational experience: a scoping review and framework synthesis of qualitative evidence guided by the model of human occupation

Year: 2026

Type: review

Abstract: Background The Impostor phenomenon is characterized by persistent feelings of self-doubt and difficulty internalizing accomplishment despite being competent. Although its psychological consequences among healthcare professionals have been extensively studied, the influences of impostor phenomenon on occupational functioning remains underexplored. This scoping review synthesized qualitative evidence to examine the experiences of healthcare professionals with impostor phenomenon through the Model of Human Occupation (MOHO), providing an occupational science perspective on impostor phenomenon. Methods A scoping review was conducted in accordance with the Joanna Briggs Institute approach and reported following the PRISMA extension for Scoping Reviews. The protocol was pre-registered on the Open Science Framework. PubMed/MEDLINE, ProQuest Central, and Web of Science databases were searched for English-language qualitative studies published between 2015 and 2025. Data were charted and a framework synthesis was conducted using the Framework Method, with MOHO as the a priori analytical framework. Results Eleven studies met the inclusion criteria. Within volition, participants demonstrated a competence-confidence disconnect, attributional challenges and gradual reconstruction of perceived competence, while values remained largely intact despite self-doubt. Habituation reflected disrupted professional identity formation, role transitions and compensatory occupational patterns including concealment, overpreparation and perfectionistic work routines. Performance capacity was characterized by altered subjective experiences of occupational performance, including emotional distress, cognitive burden and perceived inadequacy despite evidence of competence, with consequences for learning, participation and performance. Environmental influences included supportive mentorship, constructive feedback and psychologically safe workplaces, whereas hierarchical cultures, discrimination, workload pressures and organizational expectations could potentially reinforce IP. Conclusion Interpreted through MOHO, the findings suggest that IP may be experienced across interconnected occupational processes, encompassing perceived competence, and professional role development, patterns of doing and influence of the environment. These interpretations require further cross-professional and longitudinal evidence. This review highlights the value of occupation-centered approaches for understanding and addressing IP and identifies opportunities for occupational therapy, healthcare education and organizational interventions that support healthy professional development. Systematic review registration OSF, registration DOI: https://osf.io/xrbpd

Source: Frontiers in Public Health

DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2026.1975155