Self-Efficacy as a Mediator Between Maladaptive Perfectionism and Impostor Syndrome Among College Students
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.67903/ijroms0450Keywords:
Impostor Syndrome, Maladaptive Perfectionism, Mediation Analysis, Psychological Well-Being, Self-EfficacyAbstract
This study examined the mediating role of self-efficacy in the relationship between maladaptive perfectionism and impostor syndrome among college students. Guided by Bandura’s Social Cognitive Theory, the study employed a quantitative descriptive-correlational research design with mediation analysis to determine the relationships among maladaptive perfectionism, self-efficacy, and impostor syndrome. Data were collected from 100 college students using standardized instruments, including the Frost Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale, General Self-Efficacy Scale, and Clance Impostor Phenomenon Scale. Pearson’s correlation and Hayes’ PROCESS Macro mediation analysis were utilized to examine the direct and indirect relationships among the variables. Findings revealed that respondents demonstrated moderate levels of maladaptive perfectionism and self-efficacy, while exhibiting moderate to high levels of impostor syndrome. Results showed a significant positive relationship between maladaptive perfectionism and impostor syndrome, indicating that students with stronger perfectionistic concerns were more likely to experience impostor feelings. However, maladaptive perfectionism was not significantly associated with self-efficacy, and self-efficacy did not significantly predict impostor syndrome. Mediation analysis further revealed that self-efficacy did not significantly mediate the relationship between maladaptive perfectionism and impostor syndrome. The findings suggest that impostor experiences among college students may be more directly influenced by maladaptive perfectionistic tendencies rather than general self-efficacy beliefs, highlighting the importance of culturally responsive interventions addressing self-criticism, fear of failure, and perfectionistic thinking patterns.
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