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Published on: January 22, 2016
Everyday problems with executive dysfunction and impulsivity in adults recovering from methamphetamine addiction
Carilyn Ellis1, William Hoffman2, Sarah Jaehnert3
1Research and Development Service, Portland VA Medical Center, Portland, Oregon; Behavioral Health & Clinical Neurosciences Division, Portland VA Medical Center, Portland, Oregon; Methamphetamine Abuse Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon; Doctor of Psychology Program, George Fox University, Newberg, Oregon.
Adults in remission from methamphetamine addiction (MA-REM) experience significant executive functioning and impulsivity problems. These deficits impact daily life, and individuals are aware of these challenges.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychology
- Addiction Medicine
Background:
- Methamphetamine addiction (MA) is a chronic relapsing disorder.
- Individuals recovering from MA often exhibit cognitive deficits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess executive functioning and impulsivity in adults recovering from MA.
- To evaluate the real-world impact of these cognitive impairments.
Main Methods:
- Compared adults in remission from MA (MA-REM) with non-addicted controls (CTLs).
- Utilized objective and self-report measures for executive functioning and impulsivity.
- Included 30 MA-REM adults and 24 CTLs in the study.
Main Results:
- MA-REM adults showed significantly higher objective and subjective executive functioning problems.
- MA-REM adults reported significantly greater impulsivity issues compared to controls.
- Statistical significance was observed at p < 0.050.
Conclusions:
- Adults in MA remission are aware of their executive functioning and impulsivity deficits.
- These cognitive impairments significantly affect the daily lives of individuals recovering from MA.
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