Need for Closure in Psychiatric Disorders

The need for closure (NFC) is an individual’s desire for definitive answers and a strong aversion to ambiguity. This psychological concept explains why some people prefer clear, conclusive information and decisions, whereas others are more tolerant of uncertainty and open-ended circumstances. NFC significantly affects thinking and behavior, influencing decision-making and judgment across various contexts. Recently, interest in exploring the association between NFC and psychiatric disorders has been growing. Understanding this association helps develop treatment methods and improve diagnostic criteria. In this chapter, we review recent studies on the roles of NFC in various psychiatric conditions including autism spectrum disorder (ASD), schizophrenia, and heightened anxiety during coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. We begin by discussing prior research on the relationship between NFC and cognitive flexibility in individuals with and without ASD. We then explore the role of NFC in the formation of delusions among delusion-prone individuals. Lastly, we review recent literature indicating that individuals with high NFC experienced elevated stress and anxiety levels during the COVID-19 pandemic. The application of NFC in clinical settings provides potential avenues for developing tailored therapeutic interventions. Clinicians design more effective strategies to improve cognitive flexibility, enhance decision-making processes, and facilitate better adaptation to new and challenging situations by targeting the specific cognitive and motivational deficits associated with high NFC. Moreover, understanding the role of NFC in psychiatric disorders informs the establishment of individualized educational programs and support systems, ultimately contributing to improved outcomes and quality of life for individuals affected by these conditions.