What characterizes a culture with high Uncertainty Avoidance?

A culture with high Uncertainty Avoidance is characterized by a strong preference for structured environments, organized laws, and a general fear of ambiguity. In such cultures, people tend to feel uncomfortable with uncertainty and seek to minimize it through established rules, regulations, and conventions. This leads to an emphasis on predictability and order, as individuals in these cultures often prefer clear guidelines and a defined set of expectations over spontaneity or openness to new experiences.

High Uncertainty Avoidance cultures often manifest traits such as a dislike for change, a preference for familiar routines, and the adoption of formal practices to manage uncertainty. This mindset helps individuals feel secure and confident in their social and business interactions. In contrast, cultures that score lower on Uncertainty Avoidance typically exhibit more openness to risk and ambiguity, favor flexible social norms, and are more accepting of changes in the social fabric. Therefore, the preference for organized laws and the fear of ambiguity is a defining characteristic of high Uncertainty Avoidance cultures.