- Imposter Syndrome is a sense of self doubt an individual feels about their own achievements, causing anxiety, depression, low self esteem, burnout, etc.
Source (NIH National Library of Medicine): https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK585058/#:~:text=Introduction,accomplishments%20among%20high-achieving%20individuals.
Amount of people with imposter syndrome can vary widely depending who is studied, where they are in life, etc. but the general percentage is 9%-82%
Source (Journal of Mental Health and Clinical Psychology):
https://www.mentalhealthjournal.org/articles/commentary-prevalence-predictors-and-treatment-of-imposter-syndrome-a-systematic-review.html - I feel like I have definitely experienced imposter syndrome in my computer science learning. I would say one of the ways it is holding me back the most is not feeling like I have enough knowledge to try and look for jobs and/or internships, as I believe I have to be a “certain point” of knowledge to even consider applying. The problem stems from not exactly knowing where that point is, and thus can never reach it. Additionally, I sometimes feel behind my peers on occasion, some of my peers seem to not as struggle on topics as much as I may, so it brings doubt about my actual abilities.
- The given article summarizes what imposter syndrome is, what it can cause such as lack of career growth and dissatisfaction and how it may develop due to job competition, deadlines, and difficult problems. It notes signs of doubt that may be imposter syndrome, and suggests that one can have acceptance of their imposter syndrome, stop comparing yourself to others, reach out to other peers, and never give up. I think these suggestions are good but sometimes hard to follow up with, especially things such as comparing yourself to others. However, I do think one of the best suggestions is to reach out to other peers especially your seniors, as I feel that when discussing topics with them you’ll find that others may often have the same concerns that you may have.
- I think the previous question was getting at what I think helps me with imposter syndrome, which is simply talking and working with other people, and getting to see their perspectives. I feel like working with other people makes me feel less alone in my thoughts and helps learn topics that I haven’t previously considered.
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