A Correlative Study on Impostorism and Depressive Symptoms Among College Students

Abstract

This study explores the association between IP and depressive symptoms among college students aged 18-25 in Bengaluru and Kerala, India. Using the Clance Imposter Phenomenon Scale and Beck’s Depression Inventory, it was found that there was a moderate positive correlation of r=0.343, p= 0.014, which meant that more severe feelings are associated with higher scores of impostor phenomena. A sample of 100 participants revealed significant impostor feelings and varying levels of depressive symptoms. The findings emphasize the need for integrated mental health interventions targeting both impostor feelings and depression to enhance psychological well-being in high-pressure academic environments. Future research should expand sample diversity and explore causal relationships through intervention-based studies.