Intolerance of Uncertainty as a Predictor of Religious Dogmatism

This study examined whether intolerance of uncertainty predicts religious dogmatism and investigated the predictive roles of age, gender, and educational attainment. Intolerance of uncertainty refers to heightened stress and anxiety responses to unpredictable situations, while religious dogmatism is defined as the unquestioning acceptance of religious beliefs as absolute truths. Both constructs are theorized to share a common cognitive foundation characterized by low cognitive flexibility and a strong need for certainty. The study employed a quantitative, descriptive approach with a correlational survey design, and data were collected from 421 adults living in Türkiye through convenience sampling. The multiple linear regression model was found statistically significant (F(4, 416) = 12.844, p < .001), accounting for 11% of the variance in religious dogmatism (R² = .11). The findings indicated that intolerance of uncertainty was the strongest predictor of religious dogmatism (β = .244, p < .001). Age also significantly predicted religious dogmatism, though its effect was relatively modest (β = .104, p = .034). Educational attainment was negatively associated with religious dogmatism (β = -.210, p < .001), suggesting that higher levels of education are linked to lower levels of dogmatism. In contrast, gender did not significantly predict religious dogmatism (β = .020, p = .676). These findings suggest that individuals’ psychological responses to uncertainty directly shape their religious attitudes. Intolerance of uncertainty may drive individuals toward rigid religious beliefs that offer clarity and stability. In this regard, educational programs aimed at fostering cognitive flexibility, critical thinking, and tolerance of ambiguity may support the development of more open and tolerant religious orientations.