Turning Challenges into Growth in Academia

Impostor Phenomenon describes the feeling of constant self-doubt about one’s own competence and performance. It includes the feeling of being an intellectual fraud and in danger of being exposed at any moment, despite their objective success. This concept is mainly described for high-achieving people. It often affects people who do not attribute or recognize success due to their own achievements and abilities.

The goal of this course is to learn about the Impostor Phenomenon. To this aim, we will look at the characteristics as well as scientific explanations that promote its development. In practical exercises we will look at our own professional development and identify hidden beliefs. We will dive into why the Impostor Phenomenon is affecting especially knowledge workers and what the connections are to mental health. Finally, we focus on strategies to affectively work against these negative beliefs.

Learning goals for participants:

– Getting to know impostor phenomenon and its characteristics
– Learn explanatory approaches
– Differentiate from and compare to mental health
– Learn strategies to strengthen self-esteem and one’s own capabilities

There are only 15 places available for researchers from Max Planck Law, allocated on a first‑come, first‑served basis. Furthermore, all Institutes dispose of funds earmarked for Max Planck Law events so that you will not have to fund attendance out of your normal travel allowance.

Simone Freitag holds a PhD in psychology with a focus in health psychology. She has extensive experience in the scientific field, including planning and conducting of research projects, publications, research proposals and academic teaching. She was a research associate at the University of Greifswald, the Robert Koch InsTtute and worked in the health policy sector in Berlin. She currently works as research coordinator at University Medicine in Greifswald.

Additionally, she works as a coach and trainer. She advises scientists on career planning, job applications and career changes as well as on methodological questions regarding qualification theses (Bachelor, Master, PhD). As a trainer, she gives workshops on topics such as mentoring, health and career development.

More information: www.simonefreitag.com