Validation of the German-language Clance Impostor Phenomenon Scale (GCIPS)

• Analyses proved good psychometric properties and reliabilities in two samples.
• Evidence for nomological validity was found (correlations to related constructs).
• Partial correlations revealed a unique attribution style for GCIPS high-scorer.
• EFA and CFA yielded a 3-factor model; usefulness of subscales is discussed.

The Impostor Phenomenon (IP) is characterized by external attribution of success, feelings of inadequacy, and a fear of being exposed as intellectual fraud. The most frequently used and psychometrically sound IP measure is the Clance Impostor Phenomenon Scale (CIPS) whose German version has not been validated yet. The aim of this study was to examine the psychometric properties and validity of the German CIPS. In two independent samples (N = 151; 149), analyses yielded good reliability (α = .87; .89) and item-total correlations (.47; .51). Robust correlations to IP-related variables (depression, fear of negative evaluation, attributional style, locus of control, and self-esteem) supported the nomological validity. Partial correlation analysis controlling for depression revealed a unique attributional style for IP-high scorer which manifests in external-instable attributions concerning success. In line with previous findings, an exploratory factor analysis (Sample 1) yielded three factors (Fake, Luck, and Discount), which accounted for 44% of variance. Confirmatory factor analyses (Sample 2) supported this 3-factor-model. The diagnostic application of the German CIPS is encouraged.