Imposter syndrome — the persistent fear of being 'found out' as less capable than others believe — frequently co-occurs with and amplifies sensory processing disorder.
The Sensory Processing Disorder-Imposter Syndrome Cycle
- Sensory Processing Disorder undermines confidence, making imposter thoughts more frequent and believable
- Imposter syndrome creates chronic self-doubt that worsens sensory processing disorder
- Overwork and perfectionism (imposter coping strategies) deplete resources needed to manage sensory processing disorder
Who Gets Imposter Syndrome with Sensory Processing Disorder?
Imposter syndrome is most common in high achievers and in people from underrepresented groups in their field. It's particularly prevalent in academic and professional contexts where sensory processing disorder is also common.
Breaking the Sensory Processing Disorder-Imposter Cycle
- Keep an evidence file: Document compliments, successes, positive feedback
- Separate feelings from facts: Feeling like an imposter doesn't make you one
- Normalize it: Imposter syndrome is nearly universal among high achievers
- Therapy: CBT effectively addresses both imposter syndrome and sensory processing disorder