Tolerance for uncertainty and patterns of decision-making in complex problem-solving strategies

Abstract

Current studies of complex problem-solving do not commonly evaluate the regulatory role of such personality-based variables as tolerance for uncertainty, risk-readiness, and patterns for coping with decisional conflict. This research aims to establish the contribution of those traits into individual parameters of complex problem-solving strategies. The study was conducted on 53 healthy individuals 17 to 29 years old (M = 20.42; SD = 2.34). Our own computerized complex problem task “The Anthill” was developed for this research. We identified five measurable parameters of the participants’ problem-solving strategies: preferred orientational level (POL); orientational level variability (OLV); class quotas‘ range (R); mean and median quotas shift (MS and MeS); and abrupt changes of strategy (AC). Psychodiagnostic methods included: new questionnaire of tolerance/intolerance for uncertainty; personal decision-making factors questionnaire; Melbourne Decision Making Questionnaire; Subjective Risk Intelligence Scale; Eysencks’ Impulsiveness Scale. The study showed the role of tolerance for uncertainty, risk-readiness, negative attitude toward uncertainty, and decision-making styles in the regulation of complex problem-solving strategies. Specifically, procrastination, tolerance for uncertainty, and risk-readiness were significant predictors of individual strategy indicators, such as POL, OLV, and MeS. Thus, personality traits were shown to regulate resource allocation strategies and the required level of orientation in a complex problem.