Abstract:  Self-uncertainty, which is induced by confusion/suspicion of important regarding one’s psychological characteristics, is defined as a feeling of inconsistency and discontinuity, when contradictions or conflicts arise among one’s cognitions, experiences, and behaviors. This article summarizes the literature on self-uncertainty and proposes a conceptual model, suggesting that its structure is composed of three dimensions: cognitive, affective and motivational. This article then introduces and integrates related theories and models in terms of uncertainty management. Future research should a) clearly define the concept of self-uncertainty and focus on the cultural difference factor; b) test different uncertainty management strategies with multiple perspectives; c) explore the mechanisms of self-uncertainty inducement and management; and d) explore how best to instruct people to take precautions against self-uncertainty and its management, instead of passively accepting the experience.

Key words:  self-uncertainty, self, meaning-making, self-actualization, cultural worldview defense