Scale-Description

The Adapted Uncertainty Scale (AUS) is a psychometric tool developed to measure the sense of uncertainty experienced by individuals in specific situations. The AUS is an adaptation of earlier scales that dealt with uncertainty, primarily in the context of health and chronic disease management. The scale consists of a series of statements to which participants respond based on how they feel about uncertainty related to the situation they are dealing with.

Data Analysis and Usage

The analysis of the Adapted Uncertainty Scale involves statistical processing of responses given on a Likert scale (usually 5- or 7-point), where participants rate their level of agreement or disagreement with each statement. The key dimensions of uncertainty examined include a sense of control, the perception of risk, and the psychological reaction to uncertainty. Methods of analysis include factor analysis to identify underlying dimensions and the assessment of the scale’s reliability and validity.

The AUS can be used for various applications, mainly in research and clinical practice. In research, it is employed to assess the degree of uncertainty individuals feel in situations such as managing chronic conditions, making decisions in uncertain contexts, or adjusting to unpredictable changes. In clinical practice, data from the AUS can help healthcare professionals identify areas where patients experience significant uncertainty, allowing for targeted interventions to be designed.

Purpose

The objective of using the Adapted Uncertainty Scale is to evaluate the degree and dimensions of uncertainty individuals experience, with the ultimate goal of understanding how uncertainty affects decision-making, psychological well-being, and behavior. Calibrating uncertainty is crucial in situations such as treating patients with chronic illnesses, where uncertainty can lead to anxiety, fear, or doubts that negatively impact quality of life.

Calibration

The AUS is calibrated using statistical methods that assess the internal consistency of the statements (usually with Cronbach’s Alpha) and construct validity through factor analyses. The scale’s calibration helps identify the key factors contributing to uncertainty and enables the identification of groups of individuals who may experience high levels of uncertainty.

References

Mishel, M. H. (1988). Uncertainty in illness. Image: The Journal of Nursing Scholarship, 20(4), 225-232.
Mishel, M. H., & Braden, C. J. (1988). Finding meaning: Antecedents of uncertainty in illness. Nursing Research, 37(2), 98-103.
Wright, L. J., Afari, N., & Zautra, A. (2009). The illness uncertainty concept: A review. Current Pain and Headache Reports, 13(2), 133-138.