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The Evolutionary Mechanisms, Modern Mismatch Manifestations, and Intervention Strategies of Intolerance of Uncertainty

  • FAN Yongfang ,
  • YANG Shuo ,
  • ZHANG Ping ,
  • ZHONG Huiting
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  • Shengyang Normal University, School of Educational Science, Shenyang 110034, China

Online published: 2026-03-31

Abstract

Intolerance of uncertainty (IU) is a significant psychological trait that is prevalent across various psychological disorders and has a significant impact on individuals' physical and mental health. From an evolutionary psychology perspective, IU represents an adaptive mechanism developed in response to pressures related to survival, social interaction, and reproduction. Its formation can be explained by the environmental adaptability hypothesis, error management theory, and social adaptability hypothesis. However, due to evolutionary mismatch, these mechanisms manifest as functional deviations in modern society: the heightened risk vigilance emphasized by the environmental adaptability hypothesis may increase vulnerability to psychological disorders; the threat overestimation bias highlighted by error management theory often leads to decision-making difficulties; and the social sensitivity posited by the social adaptability hypothesis is prone to trigger social anxiety. To address these issues, effective intervention strategies include emotion regulation training, cognitive behavioral therapy, and the construction of social support systems. Future research should strengthen theoretical integration and conduct long-term follow-up and cross-cultural studies to further examine intervention effects.

Cite this article

FAN Yongfang , YANG Shuo , ZHANG Ping , ZHONG Huiting . The Evolutionary Mechanisms, Modern Mismatch Manifestations, and Intervention Strategies of Intolerance of Uncertainty[J]. Psychological Communications, 2025 , 8(4) : 330 -336 . DOI: 10.12100/j.issn.2096-5494.225045

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