Study Reveals Most Women in STEM Experience Impostor Syndrome

Recent research highlights that a significant majority of women pursuing advanced degrees in STEM fields often struggle with feelings of impostor syndrome—a psychological pattern where high-achieving individuals doubt their abilities and fear being exposed as frauds. According to a study conducted by Binghamton University, nearly 97.5% of women in STEM graduate programs experience at least moderate levels of impostor feelings. This phenomenon is distinct from low self-esteem or depression and stems from internal perceptions about their competence and achievements.

Impostor syndrome causes individuals to attribute their successes to external factors like luck, rather than their skills and efforts. Consequently, they worry about not being able to replicate their accomplishments and fear that others will discover their perceived inadequacies. This issue tends to be more pronounced among marginalized groups, such as women of color, due to societal stereotypes and underrepresentation in STEM. Stereotypes suggesting women lack innate intellectual abilities necessary for success in STEM contribute to internalized doubts.

Researcher Jiyun Elizabeth Shin from Binghamton University emphasizes that impostorism not only affects self-esteem but also correlates with poorer mental health, increased burnout, and a higher likelihood of contemplating dropping out. The feeling of being an intellectual fraud persists despite evident success, driven by a failure to internalize achievements and attributing success to luck.

Addressing impostor syndrome requires understanding its roots and promoting strategies like changing fixed mindsets—believing abilities can be developed—and increasing social support. This can help reduce feelings of impostorism and improve mental well-being among women in STEM. Open conversations about these feelings can also alleviate isolation and foster resilience.

For further insights, see the full study: Jiyun Elizabeth L. Shin, 'Impostorism: prevalence and its relationships with mental health, burnout, dropout consideration, and achievement among graduate women in STEM,' Social Psychology of Education (2025). Additional support and information can be found through Binghamton University.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-07-women-stem-frauds.html