Examining of working memory and cognitive flexibility based on high/low levels of worry and intolerance of uncertainty

Latest neuro-cognitive frameworks claimed that working memory and cognitive flexibility as the main feature of executive functions (EF), were affected by worry and intolerance of uncertainty. Considering that the role of cognitive functions in understanding and treating emotional disorders has received less attention of researchers, it seems to be a major research gap to focus on these novel aspects.

The purpose of this study was to compare the working memory and cognitive flexibility in individuals with high/low levels of worry and intolerance of uncertainty.

The method of this study was causal-comparative. A sample of 500 individuals were chosen availably and were screened with Pen-state worry questionnaire (PSWQ) (Meyer et al, 1990) and intolerance of uncertainty scale (IUS) (Freeston et al, 1994) and 50 individuals were selected by targeted sampling in high levels of worry and intolerance of uncertainty, as well as 50 other individuals in low levels. Finally, they undertook computerized Stroop (Ridely, 1935) and N-Back tests (Kirchner, 1958).

The multivariate analysis of variance results, indicated a significant difference between working memory with F=417/49 and cognitive flexibility with F= 30/27) P= 0.001(.

The findings revealed that working memory and cognitive flexibility in individuals with high levels of worry and intolerance of uncertainty had a significant drop. Therefore, further considerations on this issue can be effective in treatment plans.