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Sex modulates approach systems and impulsivity in substance dependence
Robert I Perry1, Theodore Krmpotich, Laetitia L Thompson
1University of Colorado School of Medicine, Department of Radiology, 12700 E. 19th Avenue, Mailstop C278, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
Drug and Alcohol Dependence
|June 4, 2013
Summary
Substance dependent women exhibit higher approach behaviors and impulsivity than men, suggesting sex modulates personality traits linked to drug use and may explain differences in addiction progression.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychology
- Addiction Research
Background:
- Substance dependent individuals (SDI) often display pathological approach behaviors, impulsivity, and negative affect.
- Sex differences exist in addiction, with women sometimes escalating drug use faster than men.
- The interplay of personality traits and sex in addiction remains understudied.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the interaction between personality traits and sex in substance dependence.
- To explore how sex influences approach behaviors, impulsivity, and negative affect in SDI.
Main Methods:
- Fifty-one SDI and 66 controls (males and females) completed the BIS/BAS Scales, Barratt Impulsiveness Scale, and PANAS-X.
- 2x2 ANCOVAs analyzed group, sex, and interaction effects, controlling for education.
Main Results:
- Significant group by sex interactions found for Behavioral Activation System (BAS) scores and motor impulsivity.
- Female SDI showed the highest approach tendencies and impulsivity, followed by male SDI, male controls, and female controls.
- SDI reported higher negative affect; women scored higher on Behavioral Inhibition System (BIS) than men.
Conclusions:
- Elevated BAS and motor impulsivity in female SDI compared to male SDI and control women suggest sex modulates personality traits associated with drug use.
- These sex-modulated personality traits may contribute to observed differences in addiction progression between males and females.
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