Development of Theory of Uncertainty on COVID-19: Theory Derivation Based on Uncertainty in Illness Theory

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to develop the Theory of Uncertainty on COVID-19 using the strategy of theory derivation. Methods: Theory derivation was carried out in the following steps: review the literature to explore the phenomena related to uncertainty on COVID-19; select a parent theory that provides valuable concepts and a useful structure for derivation, and identify the concepts and structure of the parent theory to use in derivation; modify and redefine the concepts and structure of the parent theory to create a derived theory. In the literature review process, relevant findings were synthesized to support the propositions of the derived theory. Results: The Theory of Uncertainty on COVID-19 was derived from the Uncertainty in Illness Theory to make it relevant and applicable to a specific aspect of uncertainty on COVID-19, health-related uncertainty perceived by a person who has not contracted COVID-19. It is a middle-range theory targeting the general population and consists of a linear and unidirectional model centered on three themes: antecedents of uncertainty, appraisal of uncertainty, and coping with uncertainty. Conclusion: The Theory of Uncertainty on COVID-19 will be able to contribute to efforts to manage perceived uncertainty on pandemic diseases and improve individual biopsychosocial health in the future.