Understanding Imposter Syndrome: A Sociological Exploration of Women Academics in South Africa

Imposter syndrome is a psychological phenomenon manifested through feelings of self-doubt regarding intellectual competence, skills, and accomplishments, despite evident success. This often results in a constant fear of being exposed as a fraud. Among women in academia, imposter syndrome can present as heightened self-doubt and feelings of inadequacy, hindering their confidence and prospects for professional advancement. The transformation initiatives in South African tertiary institutions, aimed at increasing the representation of women and people of colour, have brought about notable demographic shifts. However, these shifts have coincided with rising levels of impostorism, particularly among historically disadvantaged groups, reflecting the broader challenges professionals in the Global South face within academic environments.

This paper moves beyond the predominantly psychological focus of existing research and critically engages with the sociological dimensions of imposter syndrome, particularly within the context of South Africa’s higher education system. By employing a qualitative phenomenological approach underpinned by feminist intersectionality, socio-cultural, and organisational cultural frameworks, this study highlights the interplay of sociological factors such as gender, race, and socio-economic background, alongside broader societal structures and academic professional cultures. The research not only provides a more complex and nuanced understanding of imposter syndrome among women academics but also contributes to addressing the gap in Global South scholarship by examining how professional academic work perpetuates inequality. This reflection on professional inequality within South African academia offers a critical perspective on the role of professions in society and their implications for the Global South.