[Impulsivity and externalization and internalization problems in adolescents].

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Developmental Psychology
• Clinical Psychology

Context:

• Impulsivity is a multidimensional construct with established links to externalizing disorders.
• Research on the relationship between trait impulsivity and internalizing problems in adolescents is limited.
• Adolescent outpatients present a unique population for studying these associations.

Purpose:

• To explore the correlations between different dimensions of trait impulsivity and both externalizing and internalizing problems in adolescent outpatients.
• To investigate the specific impulsivity facets (Motor, Non-planning, Attentional) associated with psychopathology in this population.

Summary:

• A study of 31 adolescent outpatients utilized the Barratt Impulsivity Scale (BIS) and Strength and Difficulties Scales (SDQ).
• Results indicated significant correlations between total impulsivity scores and both externalizing and internalizing problems.
• Specific dimensions like non-planning impulsivity showed strong associations with internalizing issues, while motor impulsivity linked to externalizing problems.

Impact:

• Findings highlight that impulsivity is associated with a broader spectrum of adolescent psychopathology than previously recognized.
• This research suggests that targeting specific impulsivity dimensions, such as motor and non-planning, could be beneficial in therapeutic interventions.
• Implications for treatment include cognitive-behavioral therapy and pharmacotherapy (e.g., SSRIs) for managing impulsivity-related issues in adolescents.