Navigating Complex Trauma & Impostor Syndrome While Being Underrepresented in Academia

Abstract
The imposter syndrome phenomenon is defined as a sense of intellectual fraudulence and an inability to internalize success. Although impostor syndrome has been widely recognized in various fields and across disciplines, there is minimal research that focuses on the intersections of impostor syndrome and identity-related or complex traumas. Furthermore, little is known about the relationship between impostor syndrome and identity-related traumas, specifically on women and people of color who work in academic settings. When individuals with underrepresented identities experience identity related harm (i.e., harm caused by behavior targeted at one's identities (race, gender, sexual orientation, ability, citizenship status, documentation and immigration status, religion, etc.), it indicates that they are being targeted in an environment in which they hold less power. If this harm goes unaddressed it can further implicate the ways in which individuals perceive themselves, interact with others, and fulfill organizational or work-related tasks. Furthermore, identity related harm can exacerbate feelings of impostor syndrome due to acts of discrimination, microaggressions, feelings of isolation, and not feeling like one belongs. Because these acts of harm are directly related to an individual's identity, it is difficult for underrepresented individuals to disconnect from various triggers, including feeling like a fraud or impostor. Therefore, it is crucial to address interpersonal trauma and impostor syndrome on both an individual and systemic level to effectively reduce the harm. To conclude, this workshop will explore and define the unique and harmful effects of impostor syndrome and interpersonal traumas on this historically marginalized population. Various perspectives and experiences will be discussed across marginalized groups such as women, racially ethnic minorities, first generation individuals, and more. Additionally, participants will leave with tangible evidence-based coping strategies and interventions that can be implemented on an individual and systems level and will alleviate the negative consequences of impostor syndrome and interpersonal trauma.