Uncertainty distress: Theoretical underpinnings and clinical implications

Uncertainty distress is a psychological state defined as the set of negative emotions elicited by the unknown aspects of a given situation. The Uncertainty Distress Model (UDM; Freeston et al., 2020) highlights the role of threat, uncertainty, and intolerance of uncertainty in determining such distress in everyday life. Theoretically, the formulation of the UDM was inspired by three different research backgrounds, referring to threat models of anxiety and the concepts of «perceived uncertainty» and «intolerance of uncertainty». In addition, clinical experiences in contexts characterized by high levels of uncertainty and threat (i.e., chronic diseases, dementia) and clinical considerations related to the current Coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic have significantly contributed to this conceptualization. The current manuscript reviews the theoretical underpinnings and the clinical implications of the UDM. The main implications are not exclusively related to the field of psychopathology, since this model aims to provide an explanation for the «normal» responses to events that can impact people’s lives. Future studies should empirically test its conceptual and applicative validity.