JOURNAL ARTICLE

Transcendent or Fraudulent: Investigating the Relationships Among Imposter Phenomenon, Perfectionism, and Calling.

  • Published In: Journal of Career Development, 2026, v. 53, n. 1. P. 81 1 of 3

  • Database: Business Source Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Jayne, Alexa; Stoa, Rosalyn; Dik, Bryan; Heintz, Autumn 3 of 3

Abstract

This study explores the relationships among imposter phenomenon (IP), perfectionism, and a sense of calling, focusing on how calling may act as either a risk or protective factor for IP. Using data from 581 undergraduate students, the research found that a stronger sense of calling is positively associated with greater imposter feelings, with perfectionism partially mediating this relationship. Additionally, calling moderates the link between perfectionism and IP, weakening the association for individuals with higher calling. These findings suggest that while calling generally promotes positive vocational outcomes, it can simultaneously increase vulnerability to imposter feelings, especially when coupled with perfectionistic tendencies, highlighting the complex interplay of motivational and cognitive factors in career development.

Additional Information

  • Source:Journal of Career Development. 2026/02, Vol. 53, Issue 1, p81
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Health and Medicine
  • Publication Date:2026
  • ISSN:0894-8453
  • DOI:10.1177/08948453251396139
  • Accession Number:190222047
  • Copyright Statement:Copyright of Journal of Career Development is the property of Sage Publications Inc. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites without the copyright holder's express written permission. Additionally, content may not be used with any artificial intelligence tools or machine learning technologies. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

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