Date of Conferral
7-29-2026
Date of Award
July 2026
Degree
Doctor of Social Work (DSW)
School
Social Work
Advisor
Curtis Davis
Abstract
This doctoral project is focused on the social work practice problem of limited understanding of how social workers experience clinical supervision in the context of imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome can affect confidence, decision making, and overall wellbeing, making it an important issue in clinical social work practice. The purpose of this study was to explore how social workers describe and make meaning of their supervision experiences involving feelings of imposter syndrome. Guiding practice-focused research questions were used to examine how social workers experienced clinical supervision and described autonomy, competence, and relatedness. This study was informed by the self-determination theory, which is a framework for understanding how psychological needs shape professional growth and identity. A qualitative research design was used, with data collected through semi-structured interviews with 16 licensed social workers who completed or were currently engaged in clinical supervision. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis, including transcription, coding, and development of themes. This study informs clinical supervision practices by identifying ways to better support social workers and address experiences involving imposter syndrome, with implications for practice and positive social change.
Recommended Citation
Tarr, Alexis, "Imposter Syndrome and Self Determination in Clinical Social Work Supervision" (2026). Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies. 20452.
https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/20452
