Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 14, 2026

Using the Threat Probability Task to Assess Anxiety and Fear During Uncertain and Certain Threat
Published on: September 12, 2014
Anxiety sensitivity and intolerance of uncertainty: requisites of the fundamental fears?
R Nicholas Carleton1, Donald Sharpe, Gordon J G Asmundson
1Anxiety and Illness Behaviours Laboratory, University of Regina, Regina, SK, Canada S4S0A2. carletor@uregina.ca
Abstract:
Fears related to anxiety sensitivity (AS)-illness/injury sensitivity, fear of negative evaluation, and fear of pain-may have important theoretical associations with intolerance of uncertainty (IU). In separate investigations, AS and IU have been independently related to the same anxiety-related psychopathology. AS and IU seem to share a basis in fearing unknown, potentially harmful consequences; however, their inter-relationship remains uncertain. IU regarding a specific stimulus, a physical sensation for example, may result in a variety of interpretations and responses, including the catastrophic appraisals that characterize AS. The association between AS and IU was examined in a sample of 293 undergraduates. Results of confirmatory factor and correlation analyses suggest the two constructs are related, but nonetheless independent. It appears that IU may be a required component of catastrophic misappraisals while being an important construct related to fear and anxiety in its own right. Future research directions and potential applications are discussed.
Related Concept Videos
Anxiety: Overview
Individuals with anxiety often experience a range of physical and emotional symptoms, including sweating, trembling, tachycardia, and disturbances in sleep patterns. These symptoms vary in intensity and frequency but are generally disruptive and distressing.
Preparedness and Phobias
Social Anxiety Disorder
Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Theory of Romantic Attachment in Adulthood
Panic Disorder

