ASSESSMENT OF IMPOSTER SYNDROME AMONG ALIGARH COLLEGE OF NURSING STUDENTS, A DESCRIPTIVE CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Background: Imposter Syndrome is a psychological phenomenon that is typified by a constant feeling of doubt, intellectual fraudulence, and fear of being a fraud even if it is proven that her abilities and achievements exist. It is common among high-achievers and when it comes to challenging academic or professional areas. These symptoms may also be chronic anxiety, perfectionism, overworking and failure to internalize success. The pressure on students in the high stakes nursing education is immense in terms of the size of clinical knowledge and practical skills required.

Objective is to determine the degree of Imposter Syndrome among students of the Aligarh College of nursing.

Methodology: The study was descriptive, cross-sectional. It used convenient sampling to collect sample. The statistical analysis of the results was performed with the SPSS version 26.

Results: The findings indicated that only 9.2% participants showed few IS. The remaining sample showed Moderate (41.8%), Frequent (37.9%), and Intense (11.1%) feelings of Imposter Syndrome.

Conclusion: Imposter Syndrome is a systemic problem in the field of nursing education, and not merely a personal issue. This phenomenon should be dealt with through a multi-layered institutional response that comprises of psychological support, educating the faculty, curriculum-based awareness programs, and a more general cultural shift in nursing education towards recognizing the professional value and intellectual legitimacy of nursing students.