Intolerance of Uncertainty in Young Researchers: A Qualitative Study

Authors : Yağmur Kaya, Seydi Ahmet Satıcı, Hasan Kütük, Begüm Satıcı, Mehmet Engin Deniz

Pages : 2555-2572

Doi:10.17240/aibuefd.2025..-1698610

View : 120 | Download : 235

Publication Date : 2025-12-15

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :Many young researchers—particularly those in the early stages of their academic careers—struggle to cope with uncertainty, a persistent and often overlooked challenge in academic life. However, the subjective experiences of intolerance of uncertainty among young researchers, as well as the underlying mechanisms, have not been sufficiently explored. Personal accounts and beliefs regarding uncertainties encountered in academia may help reinforce, reshape, or generate new perspectives. In this study, semi-structured interviews were conducted with fifteen young researchers working at various universities, and the data were analyzed using thematic analysis. As a result of the analysis, four main themes were identified: encountered uncertainties, consequences of intolerance of uncertainty, coping with uncertainty, and suggestions for reducing uncertainty. The findings provide insights into how young researchers construct meaning around uncertainty and how intolerance of uncertainty shapes their professional development. This study contributes to a contextual understanding of intolerance of uncertainty in academia and emphasizes the importance of institutional and psychological support in fostering resilience among young researchers.
Keywords : Genç araştırmacılar, Akademik yaşam, Belirsizliğe tahammülsüzlük, Nitel araştırma

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