Imposter Syndrome
Imposter syndrome refers to an individual who feels insecure and underserved with their outer achievement, abilities and academic work. They often feel they are a fraud and feel guilty as if they tricked everyone thinking they are competent. Research revealed 70% of adolescents have imposter syndrome in their career. Imposter syndrome is more common than you think. People who are diagnosed usually are from the community of hardworking and constantly aim for perfection.
5 Types of Imposter Syndrome
The Perfectionist
Individuals that fall into this category have the tendency to do everything in perfection. They dislike mistakes and frequently focus on their shortcomings.
The Natural Genius
Natural genius is people who set unachievable goals and get deeply devastated when their goals aren’t achieved. Feeling as if they are not good enough. For example, having a goal to finish 3 novels in a day.
The Soloist
The soloist prefers working alone than working in a group. When they fail a task while doing the work alone, they have the mindset of “I can’t even do this alone, I am useless.”
The Expert
The others normally see the expert as someone who is good at almost everything they do. Yet, the expert feels like they are still incapable compared to their peers and colleagues. For an instance, a student who scored straight A’s and excel in sports might still think they are incompetent.
The Superhero
Superhero see themselves as “must be” the best. Therefore, they are constantly adding pressure to themselves in ensuring they are the best at their career. Nonetheless, they never feel as though they are the best even when they are.
Characteristics of this syndrome
- Pressure to work harder due to lack of confident
- Believed achievements are due to luck
- Fear of success
- Do not believe in their abilities
- Set extremely difficult goals for themselves
What caused this syndrome?
Imposter syndrome can be caused by:
- Huge burden by parents when younger
- Regularly being put down by others
- Maladjustment at a new environment/ responsibilities
Treatment for this syndrome?
Possible ways for treatment:
- Visit a therapist. Visiting a therapist allows you to understand better on what caused the syndrome of yours, how to deal with them whenever self-doubts happen and understand the syndrome better.
- Write down achievements in a journal. Jotting down your achievements in a journal or diary can keep track of how much you achieved. You might also be able to realise the blood, sweat and tears you gave while doing the task. Knowing your achievements are not because of luck.
- Speak to a friend or family. When self-doubt thoughts come unexpectedly, it is best to communicate with a friend or family member. Share your worries and you might realise these thoughts happened to everyone once in a while.
Conclusion: After reading this, do you feel like you might have imposter syndrome? Do you wish to talk to someone? Contact us at BeLive in Psychology!
