Understanding the internal and external drivers of imposter syndrome in black females in the ICT sector in South Africa

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to investigate the internal and external influencers of feelings of imposter syndrome in black female leaders in the ICT sector of South Africa. The study further aims to determine the mediating impact of self-efficacy on feelings of imposterism. The imposter phenomenon, professional identity, STEM identity and self-efficacy frameworks were applied as a theoretical lens to the study. Design, Methodology, and Approach: The analysis is premised on the data collected from semi-structured interviews conducted with 18 black women engaged in the ICT sector of South Africa. This cross-sectional, qualitative research methodology examined the internal and external factors that induce feelings of imposterism in black female leaders in the ICT sector of South Africa. Findings: The results indicate that black female leaders in the ICT sector of South Africa experience feelings of imposterism. The feelings of imposterism were influenced by the fear of success, deflection of praise, the underrepresentation of black women in positions of leadership and discrediting comments by colleagues. Additionally, the mediating role of self-efficacy on feelings of inadequacy is limited.