Factors that Contribute to Individuals Experiencing Impostor Syndrome: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Impostor Syndrome is a feeling of unworthiness for the success achieved and accompanied by a fear of being discovered as a fraud. This syndrome is not a mental disorder, but it can affect a person’s mental health and performance. This systematic review was carried out to find out what factors contribute to Impostor Syndrome. Data collection was carried out by searching for relevant journals in databases, namely Google Scholar, Sage Journals, Taylor & Francis Online, Wiley Online Library, Scopus and Pubmed. There are a total of 13 journals selected and internationally accredited. From these results it was found that in general, the factors that influence Impostor Syndrome are external factors in the form of family environment, academic environment and social support, while internal factors that influence are personality such as perfectionism, self-confidence, abilities, adaptation style and mindset. However, there are also other factors that influence, namely gender, age and the field in which you are working.