- July 1, 2026 | 12:45 PM - 1:40 PM
- PCC, 113A
From Self-Doubt to Self-Assurance: Tackling Imposter Phenomenon in Clinical Practice
Moderator: Mercedes Himmons, PhD, LAT, ATC, Southern Connecticut State University
Certified athletic trainers, specifically newly certified athletic trainers, often grapple with doubts about their skills amidst evolving healthcare standards. This often results in the athletic trainer experiencing Imposter Phenomenon (IP), characterized by fear of evaluation and perceived inadequacy despite evidence of competence. Acknowledging and addressing IP can enhance interpersonal awareness, benefiting professional growth. Current research on IP among athletic trainers is limited, highlighting a gap in understanding its effects on, specifically, early career professionals. Utilizing tools like the Clance Imposter Test can aid individuals in recognizing and managing IP traits, fostering self-assurance, and improving performance in healthcare settings.
Learning Objectives - Summarize methods of accessing one’s personal perceptions and feelings of inadequacy or self-doubt.
- Criticize the best practices of certified athletic trainers to overcome imposter phenomenon.
- Synthesize practices to effectively integrate methods of overcoming imposter phenomenon into clinical practice.
Keywords: Professional development; mental health, professional advancement
