Examining the influence of intolerance of uncertainty on (occupational) future time perspective and retirement-related outcomes in working adults

Uncertainty regulation models have recently challenged the assumption that uncertainty is inherently negative, describing ways that uncertainty regulation can lead to effectiveness. The goal of this study was to empirically test a small component of these dynamic frameworks. We accomplished this through measuring intolerance of uncertainty—a predisposition towards fearing an uncertain future—as a predictor of retirement-related outcomes, via future time perspective and occupational future time perspective. In Study 1, based on a heterogenous two-wave sample of working adults, (T1 N = 975, T2 N = 875), we tested intolerance of uncertainty as a predictor of financial risk tolerance towards retirement, retirement saving behaviors, and motivation to continue working, via future time perspective. Study 1 revealed that intolerance of uncertainty had a significant indirect effect on motivation to continue working and financial risk tolerance towards retirement, via future time perspective— suggesting that tolerating uncertainty is beneficial for aging workers through shaping an open-ended future time perspective. In Study 2, we used a heterogenous three-wave sample of working adults (T1 N = 587, T2 N = 454, T3 N = 406) and evaluated intolerance of uncertainty as a predictor of perceived work ability, via occupational future time perspective. Consistent with expectations, Study 2 reinforced the conclusions of Study 1. Overall, we provide empirical support for aspects of these uncertainty regulation frameworks. We discuss our findings in the context of uncertainty regulation, (occupational) future time perspective, and successful workplace aging.