Impostor Phenomenon in Science

TitleTimeRoomTeacher
Impostor Phenomenon in Science31.01.2025 09:00 - 16:00 (Fri)OnlineDr. Simone Freitag
Keywords: 
Impostor Phenomenon, Personal Development, Leadership Support , Mental health
Course Description: 

The impostor phenomenon describes the widespread feeling of constant self-doubt about one's competence and achievements. It is often accompanied by the fear of being exposed as a fraud and particularly affects high-achieving individuals, including many female scientists. In this workshop, we will delve deep into the subject together: 

1. Fundamentals of the Impostor Phenomenon: We will closely examine the definition and characteristics of this phenomenon to develop a better understanding. 

2. Causes and Consequences: You will learn more about scientific explanations contributing to the emergence of the impostor phenomenon and its impact on personal and professional development. 

3. Identification and Overcoming: Through practical exercises, we will collectively analyze biographies and hidden beliefs to lay the foundations for overcoming the impostor phenomenon. 

4. Mental Health and the Impostor Phenomenon: We will explore how the impostor phenomenon affects mental health and discuss preventive measures. 

5. Self-Help Strategies: The workshop will also cover effective strategies for coping with the negative thoughts. 

6. Leadership Perspective: Depending on participants' backgrounds, we will shift perspectives and discuss how leaders can support their employees in overcoming the impostor phenomenon. 

This workshop will be tailored specifically to the needs of the participants. 

Course aims: 
  • Understanding of the Impostor Phenomenon: Gain a deep understanding of what the impostor phenomenon is, including its definition and characteristics. Participants learn about the prevalence of this phenomenon, especially among high-achieving individuals and its impact on various demographics, including female scientists.
  • Scientific Background and Implications: Participants explore scientific explanations for the emergence of the impostor phenomenon. Understand the psychological and emotional consequences of experiencing impostor feelings.
  • Identification and Analysis: Participants develop skills to identify signs of the impostor phenomenon in oneself and others. They analyze biographies and hidden beliefs to improve self-awareness and insight into personal mental health challenges.
  • Coping Strategies: Participants learn and practice effective self-help strategies to manage and mitigate the negative thoughts. Participants discuss preventive measures to protect against mental health strains caused by impostor feelings.
  • Leadership Skills: For participants in leadership roles, there will be a focus on how to support and guide employees in overcoming their impostor feelings. Participants enhance leadership competencies in creating a supportive work environment that addresses and reduces the impacts of the impostor phenomenon.
Teaching methods: 

Interactive Lectures: Engaging presentations that provide a thorough understanding of the impostor phenomenon, including its definition, causes, and consequences. Practical Exercises: Hands-on activities where participants analyze real-life biographies and uncover hidden beliefs, enhancing personal insight and applying theoretical knowledge. Group Discussions: Structured discussions that allow participants to share experiences and strategies, fostering a collaborative learning environment. Self-Reflection: Encouraged throughout the course to help participants identify personal experiences with impostor feelings and evaluate their progress in overcoming them

This course fits doctoral candidates in the following phase: 

At the beginning of the doctorate │ during the doctorate │ at the end of the doctorate

Participation requirements: 

None.

Technical requirements: 

Laptop/tablet with stable internet connection, microphone, webcam, Zoom (in most cases).

Course preparation: 

None.

Additional information: 

None.

Category: 
Fachübergreifende Veranstaltung
Event type: 
Seminar/Workshop
Organizer: 
Graduate School Geschäftsstelle
Responsibility for event: 
Hauptverantwortung
Format: 
Digital/Online
Course Language: 
EN
Course Capacity (Max): 
15
Course capacity (Min): 
1
Duration in hours: 
6
Financial contribution: 
20 Euro
Trainer: 
Dr. Simone Freitag

Simone Freitag holds a PhD in psychology with a focus in health psychology. She has extensive experience in the scientific field, including planning and conducting of research projects, publications, research proposals and academic teaching. She was a research associate at the University of Greifswald and the Robert Koch Institute and currently works at the Federal Joint Committee (Health Care) in Berlin. Additionally, she works as a coach and trainer. She advises scientists on career planning, job applications and career changes as well as on methodological questions regarding qualification theses (Bachelor, Master, PhD). As a trainer, she gives workshops on topics such as mentoring, health and career development.