Intolerance of uncertainty, future time perspective, and self-control.

Abstract

Intolerance of uncertainty (IU) is a transdiagnostic vulnerability factor for emotional disorders. Inspired by Construal Level Theory, the present research investigated the possibility that future time perspective (FTP) might be linked to lower levels of IU. After all, future-oriented construals can lead people to place more weight on long-term goals, leading to a better tolerance of current uncertainties. Results indeed revealed that higher FTP was associated with lower IU. Moreover, long-term goals generally involve more self-control than immediate gratification. In accordance with this line of reasoning, we explored whether self-control could both mediate and moderate the relationship between FTP and IU. Mediation analysis confirmed that higher FTP was associated with greater self-control, which in turn was linked to less IU. However, the moderation effect was not observed. The discussion explains how the current findings expand our knowledge of the nature of IU, suggesting theoretical and clinical implications for dealing with it.