Testing the imposter cycle: Imposter Phenomenon and University Student Achievement

Imposter phenomenon (IP) refers to an inability to feel responsible for one's success (Clance & Imes, 1978). The Imposter Cycle, purports that new tasks lead to imposter feelings such as anxiety which then exacerbate perfectionistic and/or procrastination behaviours. Then, following task completion, the imposter does not feel relief, instead experiencing concern about needing to complete work at a similarly high standard in future. Despite The Imposter Cycle being described and widely cited in IP literature and layperson discussions, to date, no empirical analysis has assessed the validity of The Imposter Cycle. There is also a lack of agreement concerning what relationship, if any, exists between achievement and IP, as suggested by The Imposter Cycle. The current study, a longitudinal assessment of 622 undergraduate Psychology students at The University of Newcastle, seeks to ascertain whether there is empirical support for The Imposter Cycle. This will be achieved by comparing IP scores, measured via the Leary Imposter Scale, with assessment measures including an essay grade, and measures of procrastination, perfectionism and mental health. Implications include empirically assessing The Imposter Cycle, including testing statistical validity. Future impacts are varied, including the potential to develop treatments and assist supporting those who experience the IP.