Understanding the imposter syndrome and analyzing it in the Indian social context

Abstract

While considerable studies have been already been conducted in the field of the Imposter syndrome, focusing on the symptoms and behavioral patterns exhibited by the victims, the extent to which scales can detect the incidence of imposter syndrome and recommendatory measures to not fall prey to the syndrome. The study enclosed tries to analyze and test existent material and research and try to understand if the imposter syndrome is not just dependent on behavioral patterns, but rather demographic (age, gender, cultural backgrounds, income). These demography related variables might be furthered by institutional and cultural systems prevalent in the Indian society, be it the patriarchal bend or the system of affirmative action. A link, if any, is tested and understood and the manifestation of the behavioral aspects is tested.