An insightful examination of the Imposter Syndrome phenomenon--why 70%
of people suffer from it, what you can do to overcome it, and how you
can develop lasting self-confidence
All of us, at one point or another, have questioned our capabilities and
competence. Maybe you've wondered how you got hired and, handed big job
responsibilities? One recent article suggested that 70% of people will
experience at least one episode of IS in their lives.
Imposter Syndrome (also known as imposter phenomenon, fraud syndrome, or
the imposter experience) is a concept describing individuals who are
marked by an inability to internalize their accomplishments and a
persistent fear of being exposed as a 'fraud'. The term was coined in
1978 by clinical psychologists Pauline R. Clance and Suzanne A. Imes.
Despite external evidence of their competence, those exhibiting the
syndrome remain convinced that they are frauds and do not deserve the
success they have achieved. Proof of success is dismissed as luck,
timing, or as a result of deceiving others into thinking they are more
intelligent and competent than they believe themselves to be.
This book presents an accessible and engaging examination of IS and how
it affects us--not just at work, but as teenagers, parents and beyond.
Using interactive quizzes to help you identify if you suffer and
offering tips and tools to overcome your insecurities, psychologist Dr
Sandi Mann will draw on her experience not only as an academic, but also
as a practitioner, to present a comprehensive guide to understanding and
overcoming IS.
