Contrast avoidance model: relationship to intolerance of uncertainty and fear of change

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Date

2019-03-18

Department

Towson University. Department of Psychology

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Abstract

The current study aimed to examine the relationship between, Intolerance of Uncertainty (IU) model (Dugas, Gagnon, Ladouceur, & Freeston, 1998b) and the Contrast Avoidance model (CAM) (Newman & Llera, 2011), two theories that have been developed and support as underlying mechanisms of GAD. In addition, it aimed to establish the new concept of fear of change (FoC), such that it posited that those who are intolerant of uncertainty, engage in contrast avoidance tendencies, and show symptoms of GAD are more likely to fear change no matter the valance. Data was gathered from 152 undergraduate students that were recruited from Introductory Psychology courses, ages ranging from 18 to 33 years old. The study assessed a range of variables, including: worry (Penn State Worry Questionnaire [PSWQ]), GAD symptoms (Generalized Anxiety Disorder Questionnaire IV [GAD-Q-IV]), contrast avoidance tendencies (Contrast Avoidance Questionnaires [CAQs]), intolerance of uncertainty (Intolerance of Uncertainly Scale [IUS]) and people's perceptions of change (Fear of Change scale [FOC]). Several path models were run, indicating that: 1) CAQ predicted scores on the GAD-Q-IV, IUS, and PSWQ; 2) IUS partially mediates the relationship between CAQ and GAD-Q-IV; and 3) IUS mediated the relationship between CAQ and FoC. The present research furthers our understanding of underlying mechanisms of GAD while developing a base to understand the relationship between the CAM and IU. Additionally, it established the ground work for the new concept FoC.