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Impulsivity and positive psychotic symptoms influence hostility in methamphetamine users
Kely Lapworth1, Sharon Dawe, Penelope Davis
1School of Psychology, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD, 4111 Australia.
Addictive Behaviors
|December 23, 2008
Summary
Methamphetamine dependence increases hostility by worsening psychotic symptoms and impulsivity. These factors contribute to a hostile perception, with combined high symptoms and impulsivity leading to the most hostility.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Addiction Medicine
Background:
- Methamphetamine (MA) use is linked to aggression, hostility, and psychosis.
- Mechanisms underlying the MA-hostility link require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore mediating and moderating variables between MA dependence and hostility.
- Investigate the roles of positive psychotic symptoms and impulsivity.
Main Methods:
- Study sample comprised 237 injecting MA users.
- Statistical analysis examined mediation and moderation effects.
Main Results:
- Positive psychotic symptoms and impulsivity mediated the MA dependence-hostility relationship.
- These factors also moderated the relationship, with combined high levels showing the greatest hostility.
- MA use appears to increase hostility via heightened psychosis and impulsivity.
Conclusions:
- Positive psychotic symptoms and impulsivity are key mechanisms linking MA dependence and hostility.
- Clinical assessment and management of MA dependence should consider individual differences in these factors.
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