Imposter phenomenon and experiences of discrimination among students at a predominantly White institution

Objective: To compare the experiences of Imposter Phenomenon and discrimination among non-Hispanic White (NHW) and racial and ethnic minority (REM) students at a predominantly White Institution (PWI). Participants: 125 undergraduate students (89.6% women, 68.8% NHW, and 31.2% REM). Methods: Participants completed an online questionnaire including the Clance Imposter Phenomenon Scale (CIPS), Everyday Discrimination Scale (EDS), demographic variables (class year, gender, first generation student status), and 5 items assessing students’ feelings of belonging and support. Descriptive statistics and bivariate analyses were performed. Results: Mean CIPS scores were similar for NHW (64.05 ± 14.68) and REM students (63.62 ± 15.90, P = . 882), but EDS scores were significantly higher among REM students (13.00 ± 9.24 vs. 8.00 ± 5.21, P = . 009). REM students more frequently felt that they don’t belong, are excluded, and lack resources to succeed. Conclusions: Racial and ethnic minority students at PWIs may need additional resources and social support.