Educational Interventions for Imposter phenomenon: a scoping review

Abstract

Background Imposter Phenomenon (IP) is a subjective feeling of intellectual fraud and self-doubt experienced by individuals in goal-orientated high-achieving professions, regardless of gender. The impact of IP within healthcare has been associated with individual physical and mental health and concerns around training, career progression and DEI at an institutional level. To effectively address IP in healthcare, this scoping review aims to explore educational interventions designed to empower high-achieving individuals with the tools needed to confront and overcome IP. Methods The scoping review adhered to a predetermined protocol informed by the JBI methodology and PRISMA-ScR guidelines in order to identify educational interventions addressing IP in high-achieving industries. Articles were searched across multiple databases, including MEDLINE (Ovid), PsychINFO, SCOPUS, and Web of Science, alongside grey literature, without imposing any time constraints. Results Seventeen articles were incorporated into the review, with the majority originating from the USA and majority being published since 2020. Ten studies targeted healthcare professionals, undergraduate and postgraduate healthcare students. Majority of studies aimed at addressing IP, featured a larger number of female participants than males. Workshops with self-reflection and group-guided exercises to overcome IP were the most popular educational interventions. Coaching and structured supervision were also suggested. Across all papers, three themes emerged for coping strategies: individual, peer-to-peer, and institutional. Conclusions This scoping review suggests how group and individual interventions such as workshops, small group discussions and coaching can be used to overcome IP in healthcare. Institutional changes like diversity promotion, supervisor education, and support networks are crucial in addressing IP. Further long term and speciality specific assessments are needed to measure impact. Overall, the review highlights how educational awareness and a variety of strategies can be implemented to create a supportive environment for professionals dealing with IP, promoting their well-being and success.

The prevalence of imposter syndrome among neurosurgeons in Europe: An EANS YNC survey

“…Interventions such as mentorship programs, mental health resources, and resilience-focused educational initiatives tailored to the unique demands of neurosurgery could be instrumental. Also group and individual interventions such as workshops, small group discussions and coaching can be used to overcome IP in healthcare ( Siddiqui et al, 2024 ).…”

“…Multiple studies have linked IP with conditions like depression, anxiety, burnout, and perfectionism. The potential ramifications of IP within the healthcare industry are worrisome, highlighting the urgent necessity to confront and minimize its effects within this sector ( Siddiqui et al, 2024 ). This is especially concerning in medical specialties, such as neurosurgery, known for being one of the most competitive, and both physically and mentally demanding fields.…”