Imposter Syndrome Across Surgical Subspecialties: Scratching the Surface

Purpose Imposter syndrome (IS) is a “behavioral health phenomenon described as self-doubt of intellect, skills, or accomplishments among high-achieving individuals” that has been associated with psychological distress, burnout, anxiety, and depression, and has also been shown to negatively impact career retention and job performance. Previous studies, while rare, have demonstrated remarkably high rates of IS amongst surgical trainees, but include little information on contributing factors. The purpose of this study was to broadly explore IS in surgical trainees across specialties. Methods An anonymous electronic survey aimed at identifying the prevalence, severity, and underlying factors contributing to IS in surgical trainees was developed by members of the ASE Graduate Surgical Education Committee and distributed to list servs of surgical residents across specialties at twelve institutions. Descriptive statistics, univariate analysis, and multivariable analysis were performed to identify differences in and factors contributing to IS. Results A total of 155 survey responses were received. Seventy-one percent of respondents report significant or intense IS, with women demonstrating more severe IS. Residents identified interactions with peers or other residents as triggering more feelings of IS compared to faculty or patients. Prior IS training, feeling a sense of belonging in residency, and lower incidence of microaggressions were associated with less severe IS. Conclusions IS remains prevalent and severe amongst surgical trainees. Although previous work has identified many personal factors that contribute to IS, this study is one of the first of its kind to identify environmental and experiential (context-dependent) factors associated with more severe IS.