Understanding Self-Doubt and Its Origins

Self-doubt often manifests as imposter syndrome or low self-esteem, impacting an individual's perception of their own abilities and social status. The discussion dives into the neuroscience behind self-esteem, particularly the role of serotonin in relation to social hierarchy, as seen in primate behavior. Those at the top of the social ranking exhibit higher serotonin levels, which correlates with greater confidence and contentment, while those lower in the hierarchy experience increased stress. This neurological perspective emphasizes that subjective feelings of self-worth are influenced by one's comparative status within social situations.