Intolerance of Uncertainty Scale – Short Form

What it measures

Measures the tendency to react negatively to uncertain or ambiguous situations. Intolerance of uncertainty (IU) is a transdiagnostic risk factor implicated in GAD, OCD, depression, and health anxiety.

Response format

Likert (1–5, not at all characteristic to entirely characteristic of me)

Representative items

• Uncertainty stops me from having a strong opinion.
• When it's time to act, uncertainty paralyses me. (Inhibitory)
• When I am uncertain, I can't function very well.
• The smallest doubt can stop me from acting. (Inhibitory)
• I always want to know what the future has in store for me. (Prospective)

Usage notes & scoring

Two subscale scores (Prospective and Inhibitory IU) can be reported alongside total. Higher scores = greater IU. Transdiagnostic relevance across anxiety and depression research. Freely available.

Recommended companion scales

Citation

Carleton, R.N., Norton, M.A.P.J., & Asmundson, G.J.G. (2007). Fearing the unknown: A short version of the Intolerance of Uncertainty Scale. Anxiety, Stress, & Coping, 20(3), 241–256.

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