Date of Paper/Work
12-2021
Type of Paper/Work
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership
Department
Organizational Leadership
First Advisor
Sharon Radd, Ed.D.
Department/School
Organizational Leadership, Ethics and Leadership
Abstract
Abstract
The imposter phenomenon refers to one’s persistent feelings of self-doubt, despite any external evidence of success, and fear of being discovered as a fraud (Clance & Imes, 1978). Research shows women experience imposter feelings more frequently than men, and experiences with imposter feelings can have a negative impact on job performance, career trajectories, and mental well-being (Hirschfeld, 1985; McGregor et al., 2008; Kumar & Jagacinski, 2005; Cusack et al., 2013; Neureiter & Traut-Mattausch, 2016). However, few studies attempt to understand the full impact of imposter feelings on leaders or how leaders manage these feelings in order to effectively lead. This study sought to understand the imposter phenomenon in female-identifying, for-profit leaders and explores the experiences of ten women leaders who have experience managing imposter feelings in their careers. After conducting interviews with each woman and analyzing them using Goffman’s Dramaturgical Theory, three overarching themes emerged: Triggers of Stage Fright, Impact of Imposter Feelings on Performance, and Imposter Feelings and Impression Management. These themes, and the sub-themes within each, illustrate how imposter feelings can serve as a leadership barrier to women and must be effectively managed.
Recommended Citation
Norton, Keeley. (2021). Leading with Stage Fright: Female-Identifying Leaders Navigating Imposter Feelings in the For-Profit Sector. Retrieved from Sophia, the St. Catherine University repository website: https://sophia.stkate.edu/maol_theses/46