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A Tool for Examining the Role of Social Context: Cross-National Validation of the Impostor Phenomenon Short Scale (IPSS-3)

Author

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  • Max Philipp Jansen

    (Faculty of Social Sciences, Goethe University, D-60323 Frankfurt, Germany)

  • Yosi Yaffe

    (Department of Special Education, Tel-Hai Academic College, Kiryat Shmona 12210, Israel
    Department of Educational Psychology, Tel-Hai Academic College, Kiryat Shmona 12210, Israel)

Abstract

Despite decades of research, major gaps remain in understanding the Impostor Phenomenon (IP), particularly regarding its social stratification and structural implications. While traditionally viewed through a merely psychological lens, the IP is increasingly recognized as being shaped by broader contexts such as structural inequalities and discrimination. This study aims to provide a concise, cross-nationally validated instrument for measuring IP feelings in large-scale surveys. We validate the Impostor Phenomenon Short Scale (IPSS-3), a brief self-report instrument suitable for surveys with limited assessment time. Using data from 424 German- and 477 Hebrew-speaking adolescents and young adults (aged 16–28), the factor structure, internal consistency, and construct validity of the IPSS-3 are examined via its correlations with the external locus of control and self-esteem. These analyses confirm high reliability and consistent validity across both samples. The IPSS-3 enables researchers to explore the intersection of IP-related self-doubt and perceived lack of belonging with opportunities for social participation, workplace belonging, career development, and social mobility. By providing a reliable and efficient measure of the IP, this study promotes interdisciplinary research on the IP and enhances a nuanced understanding of how subjective self-perceptions intersect with structural opportunities and social stratification.

Suggested Citation

  • Max Philipp Jansen & Yosi Yaffe, 2025. "A Tool for Examining the Role of Social Context: Cross-National Validation of the Impostor Phenomenon Short Scale (IPSS-3)," Social Sciences, MDPI, vol. 14(10), pages 1-16, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jscscx:v:14:y:2025:i:10:p:569-:d:1756149
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Carina Cornesse & Annelies G. Blom, 2023. "Response Quality in Nonprobability and Probability-based Online Panels," Sociological Methods & Research, , vol. 52(2), pages 879-908, May.
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