Ambiguity Tolerance: a Review of Conceptual Evolution and Its Measurement Tools
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Ambiguity Tolerance is a critical psychological construct influencing how individuals perceive and respond to information characterized by complexity. This review outlines the evolution of ambiguity tolerance from personality trait associated with authoritarianism to current relevance in education. This review also synthesizes existing measurement tools ranging from the foundational Budner’s (TAS) to context specific tools like ‘Tolerance of Ambiguity in Veterinary Students’ (TAVS). This review reveals a persistent tension between theoretical conceptualizations of ambiguity tolerance as a stable trait versus a malleable, context-dependent state. It concludes that while advancements have been made in developing psychometrically sound tools, research gaps remain concerning the longitudinal development of ambiguity tolerance and the refinement of cultural sensitivity in measurement.
Authors: Nida Saleem, Arun Kumar
Institution: University of Lucknow
Language: English
Subfield: Clinical Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: gold
OpenAlex ID: W7160047153
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