Candidate: Sheila F. Matthews

Degree of: Doctor of Education

Department: Counselor Education and Counseling Psychology

Title: The Relationship Between Self- esteem and Impostor Phenomenon of Female Teachers of Kindergarten through Grade 12

Committee:
Dr. Donna Talbot
Dr. John Geisler
Dr. M. Arthur Garmon

Date: Friday, November 2, 2001, 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 noon, 3306 Sangren Hall

Abstract:

Self-esteem has been considered to be a viable factor in human development at all ages (Greenier, Kerns, & Waschull, 1995). However, research in the area of self-esteem has primarily been conducted with children and adolescents (Branden, 1994). There has been limited research on the self-esteem of adults, and more specifically of women (Bower, 1993; Sanford & Donovan, 1984). Another factor related to women's experiences that may also influence personal choices has been with the topic of the impostor phenomenon.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between the levels of self-esteem and impostor phenomenon of female teachers. The selected teachers were employed in a mid-size metropolitan area, teaching in elementary, junior, and senior high schools. An effort was made to determine: (a) if there is a relationship between the levels of self-esteem and impostor phenomenon of the teachers, and (b) it there is a difference between Black and White female teachers on these phenomena.

While the primary concentration of the study concerns self-esteem and the impostor phenomenon experienced by female teachers, there was hope that the research could provide a clearer understanding of how the level of both might influence the career experiences women have and why many continue to choose predominately female careers such as teaching. The study was intended to serve as a catalyst for further research on women's career choices, the impact of self-esteem and impostor phenomenon, women the teaching field, and the difference between the experiences of Black and White women.

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