Prediction of decisional procrastination based on fear of failure, self-compassion and intolerance of uncertainty in students

Abstract

Introduction: Decisional procrastination refers to a maladaptive pattern of postponing a decision when faced with conflicts and choices. Aim: This study aims to investigate the role of fear of failure, self-compassion and intolerance of uncertainty in predicting decisional procrastination among the students. Method: This is a descriptive and correlational study. The statistical population included the students educating at the Master’s level in Tehran, in 2019-2020. In total, 440 students were selected using convenience sampling method and the informed consent form was obtained from them. The participants completed the questionnaire of Decisional Procrastination, Fear of Failure, Self-compassion and Intolerance of Uncertainty. The statistical data were analyzed by SPSS software (version 24.0) as well as the canonical correlation analysis (CCA) and multiple regression methods. Results: CCA results indicated there was a significant correlation between the decisional procrastination and variables of fear of failure, self-compassion and intolerance of uncertainty among the students (P<0.001). Also, results of regression analysis revealed that 32% of the variance of the decisional procrastination variable could be predicted by predictor variables of fear of failure, self-compassion and intolerance of uncertainty. Conclusion: Considering the role of decisional procrastination in wasting time, poor performance and increased stress and the impact of fear of failure, self-compassion and intolerance of uncertainty on decisional procrastination, it is necessary to pay more attention to this issue.