(8) Design and Evaluation of Imposter Syndrome and Stereotype Threat Interprofessional Workshop

Objective : To describe the impact of a faculty and staff workshop in a College of Health Sciences, aimed at increasing awareness and management of imposter syndrome and stereotype threat in faculty, staff, and students.

Methods: Imposter Syndrome and Stereotype Threat (ISST) training was developed as a 45-minute virtual workshop including a presentation and small and large group discussions. Training was delivered to faculty and staff during standing school meetings in the Health Sciences College organized in four schools (Clinical and Rehabilitation Sciences, Community Health and Behavioral Sciences, Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Nursing). Pre and post surveys were administered to evaluate participants’ comfort with ISST concepts, ability identifying signs of ISST, and implementation of strategies to combat their detrimental effects.

Results: Training was offered in four school-specific sessions to 177 faculty and staff. Pre and post surveys were completed by 123 (69.5%) and 64 (36.2%) attendees, respectively. Calculated mean scores on all 5-Likert scale questions improved significantly (p < 0.01; Mann-Whitney U test) post training indicating improved comfort level of recognizing and managing ISST. Additionally, faculty and staff communicated ways to combat ISST within their workplace, with many respondents planning to incorporate syllabi changes for more inclusive language, create safe spaces for students within classrooms, and increasing awareness of those vulnerable to negative effects of ISST.

Conclusions: Imposter syndrome and stereotype threat are common causes of academic underperformance, higher attrition rates, and decreased career advancement among underrepresented learners, faculty, and staff. The results of this study indicate that training programs designed to help faculty and staff recognize signs of ISST and teach them strategies to minimize impact may contribute to improved performance and retention of diverse members of the organization.