[Psychometric properties of the Hungarian version of the Intolerance of Uncertainty Scale - Short Version (IUS-12)].

Abstract

Introduction: Intolerance of uncertainty is the tendency to react negatively to an uncertain situation, regardless of the probability of the occurrence of the event and its consequences. Intolerance of uncertainty (IU) can also be conceptualized as a personality trait that is prominent in many anxiety and rumination-related pathologies. A growing body of research highlights its key role in understanding anxiety disorders.

Method: The aim of present study was to investigate the dimensionality, validity and reliability of the Intolerance of Uncertainty Scale in a large non-clinical sample (N = 1747). Former was analysed by confirmatory factor analysis, the validity by correlation with the Perceived Stress Scale. Reliability was assessed using Cronbach's alpha coefficient and test-retest analysis.

Results: Confirmatory factor analysis failed to confirm the hypothesized two-factor structure (CFI = 0.907; TLI = 0.885; RMSEA = 0.103 [90% CI = 0.096-0.110]; SRMR = 0.071). However, the exploratory factor analysis identified the same two factors as in the original study: "Prospective" and "Inhibitory". The scale showed excellent internal reliability (α = 0.897) and test-retest reliability. There was moderate correlation with the Perceived Stress Scale (r = 0.438).

Conclusion: Based on the results, the Hungarian version of the BTS-12 is a valid and reliable measurement tool. However, before its use in a Hungarian sample, its psychometric properties need to be confirmed by further studies on a large sample. In the future, the questionnaire will be useful in measuring intolerance of uncertainty and may be useful in identifying susceptibility to anxiety disorders.