Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 13, 2026
09:07
Experimental Research Examining How People Can Cope with Uncertainty Through Soft Haptic Sensations
Published on: September 16, 2015
Navigating Uncertainty
Desiree E Morgan1, Moozhan Nikpanah1, Rachel Z Bass1
1Department of Radiology, Marnix E. Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL.
Seminars in Ultrasound, CT, and MR
|August 11, 2026
Summary
Understanding uncertainty is key for leaders. Developing psychological responses, known as uncertainty tolerance, can help navigate change by viewing uncertainty as an opportunity rather than a negative experience.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychology
- Organizational Behavior
Background:
- Uncertainty is the subjective awareness of ignorance, often perceived negatively.
- Leaders face significant uncertainty during organizational change.
- Existing literature often focuses on diagnostic uncertainty, neglecting broader psychological and neurobiological aspects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the neurobiological and psychological underpinnings of uncertainty.
- To promote a novel understanding of uncertainty for practicing radiologists.
- To examine the relationship between uncertainty, change, emotion, safety, and uncertainty tolerance.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on neurobiology, psychology, and stress responses.
- Analysis of the concept of uncertainty tolerance.
- Exploration of the psychological impact of uncertainty.
Main Results:
- Uncertainty tolerance is a psychological capacity that can be enhanced.
- Understanding the neurobiological and psychological factors of uncertainty is crucial for managing its effects.
- Uncertainty tolerance enables individuals to reframe uncertainty as opportunity.
Conclusions:
- Developing uncertainty tolerance is vital for leaders managing organizational change.
- A deeper understanding of uncertainty's neurobiological and psychological basis can improve coping mechanisms.
- This work offers a new framework for radiologists to approach uncertainty.
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