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Measuring impulsivity and modeling its association with cigarette smoking.
1Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, USA.
Behavioral and Cognitive Neuroscience Reviews
|April 7, 2005
Summary
Smokers exhibit higher impulsivity than nonsmokers, measured by behavioral tasks assessing inhibition and delay aversion. This impulsivity may predate smoking, be linked to nicotine
Area of Science:
- Behavioral neuroscience
- Psychology
- Addiction research
Background:
- Impulsivity is assessed via Go/No-go (inhibition) and delay aversion tasks.
- Smokers consistently show higher impulsivity than nonsmokers across these measures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify common cognitive processes in impulsivity measures.
- To explore models explaining elevated impulsivity in smokers.
Main Methods:
- Review of behavioral tasks for impulsivity assessment (Go/No-go, delay aversion).
- Analysis of data comparing smokers and nonsmokers on these tasks.
- Examination of theoretical models for impulsivity differences.
Main Results:
- Smokers demonstrate greater impulsivity compared to nonsmokers.
- Three models are proposed: pre-existing differences, association with nicotine effects/withdrawal, and nicotine-induced neuroadaptations.
- All three models may contribute to observed impulsivity levels.
Conclusions:
- Elevated impulsivity in smokers is likely multifactorial.
- Further systematic research is required to fully understand the relationship between smoking and impulsivity.
- Understanding these links is crucial for addiction treatment strategies.