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Imposter Syndrome & Musicians

Imposter Syndrome, first defined in 1978 by Clinical Psychologist Dr Pauline R. Clance, is a psychological state where individuals undermine their achievements, talents and abilities leading to the dreaded feeling of being 'found out to be a fraud'. 'Fraud Syndrome' is another commonly known definition.

In 1985, Dr Clance developed criteria for measuring and defining Imposter Syndrome. Here are the six dimensions:

1) The Imposter Cycle.

2) The need to be special or the best.

3) Characteristics of a superman/superwoman.

4) Fear of failure.

5) Denial of ability and discounting praise.

6) Feeling fear and guilt about success.



Musicians dealing with Imposter Syndrome