Psychological barriers, including imposter syndrome and feelings of not belonging, hinder first-generation chemists' visibility and opportunity-seeking¶

Claim · All claims
Evidence · 1 study · theoretical r2 · q1
Currency · newest study 2026 · checked against its sources 2026-10-20 (automated, 1 of 1 entry) · not reviewed by a person

Subclaims¶

q1 i? First-generation chemists may experience a persistent sentiment of not belonging that manifests as imposter syndrome, reducing confidence and causing hesitation in pursuing opportunities or advocating for themselves. → Ives Robert A. 2026

Evidence¶

Ives Robert A. 2026¶

Ives Robert A., Azulay David N., Cook Adam, Dagar Mamta, Fansher Douglas J., Keshari Roshan, Ojha Anupam Anand, Patel Shivani, Sandoval-Pauker Christian, Sanghai Nitesh, Trinh Brittany K., Yadav Vishal, Zheng Zhiling. (2026). Reconsidering Excellence in the Chemical Sciences: Lessons from First-Generation Chemists. ACS Central Science. https://doi.org/10.1021/acscentsci.6c00822

q1 · i? · theoretical · r2

Reflective editorial section identifying psychological factors as an "often underrecognized" barrier, based on the authors' lived experiences. The sentiment of "do I even belong here?" is described as hindering visibility and seizing of opportunities.

"First-generation chemists, those who are the first in their immediate family to attend university, may experience a persistent sentiment of not belonging within such environments. These feelings can manifest as imposter syndrome, resulting in reduced confidence and hesitation in pursuing opportunities"

Discussion¶

Learner Variables¶

• Belonging — predictor: learners who differ on it differ in outcomes
• Socioeconomic Status — predictor: outcomes differ by group: a gap reflecting circumstances and treatment, not a cause

Related Claims¶

• Financial and economic constraints shape first-generation chemists' career decisions, sometimes deterring advanced training altogether — related
• Lack of mentorship and guidance is a key barrier for first-generation chemists, stemming from limited awareness rather than ability — related
• The editorial's insights derive from reflections of 13 first-generation chemists and cannot represent all first-generation scientists — related
• Belonging Interventions Improve Outcomes — related
• Black women and participants with intersecting identities report being overlooked, facing microaggressions, and experiencing imposter syndrome in tech spaces — related
• Racially marginalized students are less likely to report a sense of belonging in STEM education — a broader claim this one bears on