I've always found the programming world to lack the standards and rigor of other professions like being a medical doctor or an engineer where you need to join organizations and work under a pro for a few number of years before you can rightfully call yourself an engineer.

This means that I've noticed, for example, that seniors in one company with lax standards, would be at best a junior in another company with higher standards. Heck I've even worked under these "seniors" and thought to myself: "in what world are you senior if I'm better at everything that you do? I can learn nothing from you."

But all that to say, is that I don't blame seniors for not having sure footing. It's hard if you can't can compare yourself to a well defined standard or paragon of excellence.