The Impostor Phenomenon in the Nutrition and Dietetics Profession: An Online Cross-Sectional Survey

Abstract

The impostor phenomenon (IP) (also known as impostor syndrome) describes high-achieving individuals who, despite their objective successes, fail to internalize their accomplishments and have persistent self-doubt and fear of being exposed as a fraud or impostor. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and predictors of IP within a sample of nutrition and dietetics students and practitioners. An online cross-sectional survey was conducted and utilized a non-random, convenience sampling approach. A total of 1015 students, dietetic interns, and currently practicing and retired registered dietitian nutritionists and nutrition and dietetic technicians registered provided complete responses. IP was assessed with the Clance Impostor Phenomenon Scale (CIPS). Self-reported job satisfaction and well-being were assessed using validated scales. Average CIPS score was 66.0 ± 16.3 (range 22−99), and higher scores indicate more frequent or severe IP experiences. Frequent or intense IP was reported by 64% of survey respondents (n = 655). Older age, greater educational attainment and professional level, and membership in Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics groups were associated with lower IP scores. Greater social media use was associated with higher IP scores. Job satisfaction and overall well-being were inversely correlated with IP (p < 0.001). Findings suggest that IP experiences were common among a majority of nutrition and dietetics students and practitioners surveyed. Additional research and development of preventative strategies and interventions is needed.

Keywords: career advancement; impostor syndrome; job performance; mentoring; nutrition and dietetics; occupational health; the impostor phenomenon.

Figure 1

The Impostor Phenomenon by Professional Level (n = 1015). Prevalence on the impostor phenomenon were assessed with the Clance Impostor Phenomenon Scale among a non-representative sample of nutrition and dietetics students and professionals. Abbreviations: NDTR, Nutrition and Dietetics Technician Registered; RDN, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist.