(PS7-C73) Examining Intolerance of Certainty in the Relationship Between Behavioral Inhibition and Interoceptive Sensitivity in OC Spectrum and Anxiety Disorders

Background  Interoceptive sensitivity is the heightened sensitivity to body sensations often resulting in intense fear of unexpected physical symptoms and increased emotional reactivity. Behavioral inhibition is the tendency to react to novel situations with wariness or avoidance (Sandstrom et al 2020). Interoceptive sensitivity and behavioral inhibition are both commonly reported in those with obsessive compulsive (OC) spectrum anxiety disorders, (De Berardis et al., 2007; Olatunji et al., 2007; Isolan et al., 2005). Past research has also suggested that intolerance of uncertainty is significantly associated with anxiety OC symptoms. The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between intolerance of uncertainty, behavioral inhibition and intolerance of uncertainty in those with OC spectrum and anxiety disorders. 

Methods  A total of 195 adults were included in this study and participants were recruited as part of a larger longitudinal study on OC spectrum and anxiety disorders. The Anxiety and Related Disorders Interview Schedule for DSM-5 was used to diagnose participants. Participants also completed the following self-report questionnaires: Behavioral Inhibition Scale, Albany Panic and Phobia Questionnaire, with includes a subscale measuring interoceptive sensitivity, and the Intolerance of Uncertainty Questionnaire-12.

Results.  Preliminary descriptive statistics and Pearson’s correlations were conducted. Behavioral inhibition was positive correlated with both interoceptive sensitivity, r(131)=.09, p =.32, and intolerance of uncertainty, r(131)= .51, p< .001. Intolerance of uncertainty and interoceptive sensitivity were also positively associated, r(87)=.28, p=.009. In addition to these preliminary analyses we will also conduct multivariate models to explore the relationships between intolerance of uncertainty, behavioral inhibition and interoceptive sensitivity.

Conclusions These initial findings suggest an association between behavioral inhibition, interoceptive sensitivity, and intolerance of uncertainty.  Individuals with high behavioral inhibition might be more likely to respond to unknown situations with avoidance due to a perceived inability to tolerate uncomfortable physical sensations. Future research should examine the relationship between intolerance of uncertainty and interoceptive sensitivity as transdiagnostic risk factors for anxiety disorders and view both variables as potential treatment targets.