Intolerance of Uncertainty, Social Anxiety, and Psychological Wellbeing Among University Students

Abstract

Intolerance of uncertainty is associated with negative cognitive, emotional and behavioral responses. The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationship between intolerance of uncertainty, social anxiety and psychological well-being among university students. Studying these relationships will help to understand the association between variables which influence individual well-being in different social contexts. A cross-sectional study was conducted, using purposive sampling technique. Data was collected from 280 university students using validated scales e.g., Intolerance of Uncertainty (IUS), Social Interaction Anxiety Scale (SIAS) and Psychological Well-Being Scale (PWBS). Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the results. Intolerance of uncertainty was positively correlated with social anxiety (r= 0.40; p < 0.001) and negatively correlated with psychological well-being (r= -0.25; p<0.001). Social anxiety also showed a negative correlation with psychological well-being (r=-0.35; p<0.001).  Intolerance of uncertainty and social anxiety were strong negative predictors of psychological well-being among university students.  Social anxiety is associated with intolerance of uncertainty. Therefore, to avoid social anxiety it is important to avoid uncertainty. These variables can reduce psychological wellbeing of the individual.