The impostor phenomenon and work-family conflict: An assessment of higher education

Top faculty are often at risk for experiencing the impostor phenomenon (IP) in the competitive landscape of higher education. Similarly, work-family conflict (WFC) impacts many individuals who work in higher education. The present study aimed to examine the relationship between the IP and WFC in higher education using a sample of university faculty in North America (N = 197). Data were analysed based on faculty ranking, years of service to the profession and reported gender identity. Findings indicated a significantly higher presence of impostor experiences among tenure-track faculty, varying levels of impostor experiences based on years of service to the profession and no gender differences in IP levels. Finally, findings showed a significant positive correlation between the IP and WFC. Given the prevalence of the IP and WFC in higher education, we conclude with recommendations for administrators to implement programming to recognize and address the presence and consequences of the IP and WFC in higher education.