Research Participants Needed
Heather Marie Hines, doctoral candidate in Adult and Community Education at Ball State University, is seeking participants for a qualitative research study examining experiences of impostor-related thoughts and feelings among men in higher education.
Purpose
This study aims to better understand:
-Explore how men in higher education describe experiences associated with impostor phenomenon
-Study the impacts of imposter phenomenon on men in higher education, personally, professionally, and academically
-What might be the coping strategies these participants have used to stay resilient and thrive in higher education
Who is Eligible?
You may qualify if you:
-Self-identify as male
-Self-identify as having experienced impostor-related thoughts or feelings (e.g., persistent self-doubt, feeling like a fraud, or questioning competence despite evidence of success)
-Be 30 years of age or older
-Currently be in one of the following roles within a research university in the Midwest in any major or discipline:
1)Enrolled in a doctoral program (and have completed at least one semester of doctoral coursework), OR
2)Employed as a faculty member (at least one year of experience at a research university), OR
3)Be in a leadership position (rather than faculty) (at least one year of experience at a research university)
What Participation Involves
-One confidential 60–90 minute audio-recorded semi-structured interview (in person or via Zoom)
-An optional 20–30 minute follow-up member-checking session
Participation is voluntary. You may skip any question or withdraw at any time without penalty. Participation will not affect your academic standing, employment, or relationship with your institution.
IRB Statement
This study has been reviewed and approved by the Ball State University Institutional Review Board. IRB #: IRB-FY2026-396
You may contact the IRB with any questions at 765-285-5052.
Contact Information
If you are interested in participating or would like more information, please contact:
Heather Marie Hines
Doctoral Candidate, Adult and Community Education
Ball State University
heather.hines@bsu.edu
765-285-1401