Uncertainty Avoidance

 

The cultural dimension named uncertainty avoidance also emerged from the research as very important. It is the extent to which a society, organization, or group relies on social norms, rules, and procedures to alleviate the unpredictability of future events.

Some characteristics of societies that have high and low uncertainty avoidance orientation.

 

HIGH UNCERTAINTY AVOIDANCE societies have characteristics such as...

• Use formality in interactions with others.

• Are orderly and keep meticulous records.

• Rely on formalized policies and procedures.

• Take moderate, carefully calculated risks.

• Show strong resistance to change.

LOW UNCERTAINTY AVOIDANCE societies have characteristics such as...

• Use informality in interactions with others.

• Are less orderly and keep fewer records.

• Rely on informal norms for most matters.

• Are less calculating when taking risks.

• Show only moderate resistance to change.