The Mediating Role of Self-Esteem in the Relationship Between Perfectionism and Imposter Syndrome Across Different Age Groups

Abstract

The present study aimed to investigate the mediating role of self-esteem in the relationship between perfectionism and impostor syndrome across different age groups. A total of 210 adult participants, aged between 25 and 55 years, took part in the study. Data were collected using the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale to assess self-esteem, the Frost Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale to measure perfectionism, and the Clance Impostor Phenomenon Scale to evaluate impostor syndrome. The research employed a quantitative design, and data were analyzed using SPSS. Correlational analysis revealed a significant negative relationship between perfectionism and impostor syndrome. However, mediation analysis indicated that self-esteem did not serve as a significant mediator in the relationship between perfectionism and impostor syndrome. Furthermore, this mediating effect remained nonsignificant across the different age groups (25–35, 35–45, and 45–55 years), suggesting that age does not influence the role of self-esteem in this relationship. These findings contribute to a better understanding of the psychological mechanisms underlying perfectionism and impostor syndrome in adulthood.