Abstract

More research is needed to understand the relationships between imposter syndrome, social support, and the influence it can have on college student's mental health. This study examines the associations among imposter syndrome, social support, and depressive symptoms, as well as anxiety levels among first and continuing-generation college students. To further investigate differences and or similarities between these two student populations, students’ generational status will moderate the association between imposter syndrome, social support, and mental health. Participants consisted of 81 undergraduate college students, which included 27 first-generation students. Findings from this study revealed that the effects of impostor syndrome did not correlate with social support among first-generation students. Only among continuing generation students was social support negatively associated with depression symptoms. For both first-generation and continuing-generation college students, depression and anxiety were significantly correlated with each other. Although this study yields no significant interactions when all variables were moderated by students’ generational status, it remains important to investigate potential differences to provide adequate mental health support for distinctive student populations.

Advisor

Hope, Meredith

Department

Psychology

Keywords

Imposter Syndrome, Social Support, Emerging Adults, College Students, Mental Health, Depression, Anxiety, Students Generational Status, First-Generation Student, Continuing-Generation Student

Publication Date

2023

Degree Granted

Bachelor of Arts

Document Type

Senior Independent Study Thesis

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