The Effect of Epidemic Anxiety on Perceived Stress Level in The Students of Sport Sciences Faculty: The Mediating Role of Intolerance of Uncertainty

This study was conducted to examine the role of intolerance of uncertainty in the effect of pandemic anxiety on perceived stress levels among university students studying sports sciences. The study, designed using a survey model, included 605 sports science faculty students (359 male and 246 female). Data were collected using the Pandemic Anxiety Scale (PAS), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), and Intolerance of Uncertainty Scale (IUO). In analyzing the data, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was first performed to test the measurement model. Correlation tests and regression analysis based on the Bootstrap method were then applied to examine the study's hypotheses. The study found a positive relationship between PAS and PSS and IUO (Hypothesis I). According to the results of the regression analysis based on the Bootstrap method, it was determined that PAS had a significant effect on IUO. When a mediating variable was added to the model proposed in the study, it was found that PAS was a significant predictor of PSS. Additionally, when PAS was held constant, it was determined that IUO had a significant effect on PSS. Finally, it was determined that PAS has a significant indirect effect on PSS through IUO (Hypothesis II). The findings of the study indicate that controlling factors that create uncertainty is necessary for students to protect themselves from the stress caused by pandemic anxiety.