Correlates of the Impostor Phenomenon among Undergraduate Entrepreneurs

Abstract

The impostor phenomenon describes the self-attribution of success to luck and interpersonal skills rather than to intelligence and ability, despite external validation to the contrary. Evidence suggests the presence of impostor characteristics among a group of 63 undergraduate entrepreneurs. More intense impostor feelings were associated with an external locus of control and a stronger perceived effect of work on family life. Implications for entrepreneurial performance are discussed and questions for research are presented.