About the Project
Location: Streatham Campus, University of Exeter, EX4 4QJ
Project Description:
It has been argued that workplace gender inequality can, at least in part, be explained by women’s lack of confidence. Narratives around women’s confidence often cite the phenomenon of imposter syndrome, whereby women erroneously perceive their successes as fraudulent and fear that others will see them as frauds. Such a perspective suggests that if we are to increase gender equality, we need to “cure” women of imposter syndrome by boosting their confidence. This is problematic as it places both the blame for inequality, and the onus for change, on women themselves.
This project seeks to critique such an approach to imposter syndrome, by questioning the notion that women’s imposter syndrome truly originates from their own personal insecurities and that change must come from women themselves. Instead this project will investigate the ways in which women’s lack of confidence and fear of being seen as fraudulent is more fundamentally rooted in the way in which they are perceived and treated by others. In particular, the project will examine the ways in which common stereotypes about women can give rise to feeling like an imposter. This includes examining how the prevalence of such stereotypes can lead others (e.g., co-workers) to treat women, compared to men, in ways that suggest they should question their abilities, confidence, and their ‘place’ within certain work environments (e.g., those perceived to be ‘better suited’ for men).
The project will be comprised of a series of quantitative studies that will establish the perceptions and treatment that is associated with imposter syndrome. Correlational work will identify initial associations, while experimental work will establish casual relationships and identify moderating and mediating factors. Samples will include men and women in workplace and educational settings, with a focus on those that are male dominated. The project will lead to empirical knowledge that will inform workplace and policy interventions to address gender inequality.
The ideal candidate for this position will have a background and interest in social and/or organisational psychology and experience conducting experimental research. The project will be supervised by Prof Michelle Ryan and Dr Chris Begeny, at the University of Exeter, and Prof Floor Rink at the University of Groningen, in The Netherlands. The project will be affiliated with Prof Ryan’s European Research Council grant which examines how context constrains women’s careers decisions. The candidate will be part of a vibrant research group made up of PhD students and post-doctoral research fellows.
For more information about the project and informal enquiries, please contact the primary supervisor, Prof Michelle Ryan http://psychology.exeter.ac.uk/staff/index.php?web_id=michelle_ryan
Entry requirements:
You should have or expect to achieve at least a 2:1 Honours degree from a UK university, or equivalent, in Psychology (or cognate discipline),
If English is not your first language you will need to meet the English language requirements and provide proof of proficiency.
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