Self-Esteem and Depressive Symptoms Predict Intolerance of Uncertainty, but Only for Girls

Self-esteem has been found to buffer against depressive symptoms and anxiety. Intolerance of uncertainty (IU) is a key predictor of problematic worry. Girls are more susceptible to low self-esteem and increased worry and depression. In a sample of emerging adults low self-esteem predicted higher IU but only for girls.