Imposter phenomenon in physical therapists: A cross-sectional observational study

Alexandra R Anderson; Jamie LaPenna; Dustin Willis; Khyrah Simpson; Alison H Chang

doi:10.1002/hsr2.1953

Imposter phenomenon in physical therapists: A cross-sectional observational study

Health Sci Rep. 2024 Mar 4;7(3):e1953. doi: 10.1002/hsr2.1953. eCollection 2024 Mar.

Authors

Alexandra R Anderson¹, Jamie LaPenna², Dustin Willis³, Khyrah Simpson⁴, Alison H Chang¹

Affiliations

¹ Department of Physical Therapy and Human Movement Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine Chicago Illinois USA.
² Department of Physical Therapy Loyola University Medical Center Burr Ridge Illinois USA.
³ Department of Physical Therapy, West Coast University Center for Graduate Studies Los Angeles California USA.
⁴ KGS Consulting Washington District of Columbia USA.

Abstract

Background and aims: Imposter phenomenon (IP), or perceived fraudulence, describes an ongoing fear of exposure as a fraud or imposter, despite objective successes and accomplishments. Although there is a growing interest of IP in medicine, IP in the physical therapy profession has been minimally examined. We aimed to determine the prevalence and predictors of IP among licensed physical therapists in the United States.

Methods: This cross-sectional observational study utilized an online survey to assess levels of IP using the Clance Imposter Phenomenon Scale. We assessed degrees of emotional exhaustion and job satisfaction and collected professional and demographic information. A multivariable logistic regression model examined factors associated with IP presence.

Results: The mean IP score was 60.3 (SD: 15.1, range: 19-95). Fifty-five respondents (10.7%) had low IP, 196 (38.1%) moderate, 215 (41.8%) frequent, and 48 (9.3%) intense IP. The prevalence of IP, defined as frequent or intense IP, was 51.2%. Having manager/supervisor experience (odds ratio [OR] = 0.55, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.34-0.90) was associated with a reduced odds of IP presence. Holding a bachelor's or master's degree (vs. Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT); OR = 2.31, 95% CI = 1.07-5.00), a history of or current mental health diagnosis (OR = 2.77, 95% CI = 1.69-4.54), and emotional exhaustion (moderate vs. low: OR = 5.37, 95% CI = 2.11-13.69; high vs. low: OR = 14.13, 95% CI = 5.56-35.89) were each associated with an increased odds of IP presence.

Conclusions: IP is highly prevalent among licensed physical therapists. Seasoned clinicians with managerial roles seemed to be less susceptible to IP, whereas those with mental health diagnoses, emotional exhaustion, and those without a DPT degree may be more susceptible. Given its high prevalence and potential negative impact on burnout and career advancement, it is crucial to increase IP awareness and provide education on management strategies.

Keywords: burnout; imposter phenomenon; job satisfaction; physical therapy.