Publication Date

Spring 2026

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Psychology

Advisor

Megumi Hosoda; Howard Tokunaga; Raymond Bennett

Abstract

Prior research consistently shows that imposter syndrome is associated with a wide variety of negative psychological and work-related outcomes such as stress, burnout, and lower job satisfaction. However, other research suggests that individuals with higher levels of imposter syndrome may engage in compensatory behaviors such as increased effort and discretionary helping for impression management purposes. Additionally, research has found that women tend to report higher levels of imposter syndrome and higher engagement in organizational citizenship behaviors (OCBs) than men, suggesting a gender difference in both variables. The present study sought to examine the relationship between imposter syndrome and OCBs and if gender moderated this relationship. Data were collected from 95 participants via an online survey that measured demographic characteristics, imposter syndrome, and OCBs. Results revealed no significant relationships among imposter syndrome, OCBs, and gender, and that gender did not moderate the relationship. Results from this study suggested that imposter syndrome might not consistently lead to increased out-of-role work behaviors and might instead be influenced by a multitude of other variables such as work environment, relationships, and other psychological factors. Organizations can support employees experiencing imposter syndrome by offering coaching and focusing on established predictors such as personality, workplace attitudes, and leadership behaviors to encourage OCBs.

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