Exploring stress and ambiguity tolerance among ındividuals with diverse educational backgrounds

Abstract

This study explores the relationship between stress tolerance and tolerance to ambiguity during the global crisis induced by the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic has intensified stress as a psychological response to the uncertainty and ambiguity faced by individuals, highlighting the crucial role of tolerance in navigating such challenging circumstances. During periods of crisis, particularly societal transitions, individuals’ ability to tolerate ambiguity becomes a significant determinant of their mental resilience. Tolerance is conceptualized as a core personality trait enabling individuals to manage uncertainty, whereas intolerance exacerbates stress and impedes adaptive functioning. This research investigates differences in stress tolerance and tolerance to ambiguity across educational levels, the interplay between these two factors in times of global crisis, and the potential of stress tolerance and tolerance to ambiguity as foundational constructs for psychological practice and research. The findings suggest that individuals with higher tolerance to ambiguity exhibit greater stress tolerance, which helps maintain psychological equilibrium in unpredictable environments. The study underscores the relevance of these traits for both psychological theory and practical interventions in crisis management.

Keywords: Ambiguity; crisis management; stress tolerance; psychological research; tolerance.