The event will be held in English.

In the demanding and competitive world of academia, feelings of self-doubt, insecurity, and the persistent fear of being “found out” are surprisingly common—even among high-performing scholars. This phenomenon, known as Impostor Syndrome, often strikes doctoral candidates and postdoctoral researchers particularly hard. Despite external validation, many continue to question their intelligence, competence, or legitimacy. Left unaddressed, this internal struggle can lead to chronic stress, isolation, reduced performance, and even burnout.

This interactive workshop is designed specifically for doctoral researchers and postdocs who seek to better understand and overcome Impostor Syndrome. Through a combination of psychoeducation, peer exchange, self-reflection, and practical strategies, participants will learn how to identify unhelpful thinking patterns, reframe internal narratives, and foster resilience and self-compassion in their academic journey.

Topics Covered Include:

• Understanding the roots and psychological mechanisms behind Impostor Syndrome
• Identifying personal triggers and cognitive distortions
• Deconstructing academic myths around perfectionism, productivity, and success
• Exploring the influence of gender, cultural background, and educational biographies (e.g., first-generation scholars)
• Shifting from comparison to connection: creating supportive academic communities
• Strategies for self-compassion, confidence-building, and assertive communication

Methodology:

The workshop blends evidence-based input with experiential learning. It includes:

• Group discussions and case examples
• Guided journaling and cognitive reframing exercises
• Peer-coaching in small groups
• Optional role-playing and real-life academic scenarios
• Reflective activities to develop individualized coping strategies

Participants are encouraged to bring their own questions, challenges, and academic experiences into the process, fostering a space of psychological safety, mutual learning, and community support. No prior psychological knowledge is needed—just openness, curiosity, and a willingness to engage in honest reflection.

Key Competencies Acquired:

By the end of this workshop, participants will be equipped with:

• A deeper self-understanding regarding the roots and patterns of their own self-doubt
• Tools to identify and challenge Impostor thoughts as they arise
• Techniques for emotion regulation and stress management in academic contexts
• Enhanced communication strategies for discussing achievements and boundaries confidently
• A personal action plan to implement resilience-building habits in their daily academic lives

This event is open to doctoral researchers and postdocs at KIT who are KHYS members.

The event will be held in English.

We generally expect participants to attend throughout the entire duration of the event.

If you are unable to attend an event, please inform us promptly via e-mail. This way you are allowing your colleagues the opportunity to participate and you help us to maintain the quality of our Further Education Program. Thank you!