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Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 22, 2026

Three Laboratory Procedures for Assessing Different Manifestations of Impulsivity in Rats

Three Laboratory Procedures for Assessing Different Manifestations of Impulsivity in Rats

Published on: March 17, 2019

Impulsivity in the general population: a national study.

Jaime Chamorro¹, Silvia Bernardi, Marc N Potenza

¹Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University/New York State Psychiatric Institute, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY, USA.

Journal of Psychiatric Research

|May 26, 2012

Summary

Impulsivity affects 17% of the general population, particularly males and younger individuals. This trait is linked to numerous psychiatric disorders and risky behaviors, necessitating targeted interventions.

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Area of Science:

Psychiatry
Psychology
Public Health

Background:

Impulsivity influences personality, psychiatric disorders, and risk-taking behaviors.
Existing research predominantly relies on clinical samples.
The prevalence and correlates of impulsivity in the general population remain understudied.

Purpose of the Study:

To estimate the prevalence of impulsivity in the general population.
To examine the correlates of impulsivity, including psychiatric disorders and behavioral patterns.
To assess the association of impulsivity with adverse life events and functional impairment.

Main Methods:

Analysis of a large national sample of 34,653 US adults (2004-2005).
Face-to-face surveys utilizing the Alcohol Use Disorder and Associated Disabilities Interview Schedule-DSM-IV Version for diagnoses.
Inclusion of diagnoses for mood, anxiety, drug, and personality disorders.

Main Results:

Impulsivity was prevalent in 17% of the sample, more common in males and younger individuals.
Associated with various Axis I (e.g., drug dependence, bipolar disorder, ADHD) and Axis II disorders (e.g., cluster B, dependent, schizotypal personality disorders).
Linked to behavioral disinhibition, attention deficits, lack of planning, engagement in dangerous behaviors, higher trauma exposure, and significant impairment.

Conclusions:

Impulsivity is a common trait associated with significant psychiatric morbidity and adverse outcomes.
Findings highlight the need to address impulsivity in prevention and treatment strategies.
Targeting impulsivity may mitigate risks for psychiatric disorders and associated negative life events.