The English class system has always encouraged people to, “know your place”. Working class people are told not to get, “too big for your boots” or, “above yourself”. This is a reinforcement of the status quo. It has always occurred and continues – right up to the present day. Additionally, it is often self-enforced. Young, working class people are told by other working class people: “Don’t get any big ideas”. Whereas, the message for Eton students is: “Anything is possible. You can be World King, if you want to be.”
Imposter Syndrome is the name given to that pervasive feeling that you just don’t belong; that you will be found out; that you are not really good enough for the decently paid, rewarding job that you are in. Everyone else is fine. You, however, are a fraud. This is something I encounter frequently in my psychotherapy practice.
Good article from Rik Worth, in the “Huffington Post”, on Imposter Syndrome and the English class system:https://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/entry/working-class-impostor-syndrome_uk_5d5e4708e4b0b59d256f8389?utm_hp_ref=uk-mental-health