Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 9, 2025

Three Laboratory Procedures for Assessing Different Manifestations of Impulsivity in Rats
Published on: March 17, 2019
Exploring associations of impulsivity with substance use, polysubstance use, and gambling behaviors through latent
Shelby K Whalen1, Rory A Pfund2, James P Whelan2
1Department of Psychology, East Tennessee State University.
Abstract:
Impulsivity is the tendency to act hastily in reaction to internal and external cues without consideration of all potential outcomes. Limited research has used a person-centered approach to explore patterns of impulsivity and risky behavior involvement, but not how different dimensions of impulsivity relate to multiple risk behaviors within the same individuals. The present study aimed to identify latent groups based on five self-report impulsivity measures and to assess differences in latent profiles as related to alcohol use and problems, drug use, gambling, and polysubstance use. Participants were 1,608 college students (Mage = 20.52; 67% female) who completed an online survey assessing impulsivity and risky behavior engagement. Latent profile analysis indicated three profiles best represented the data: preference for reward/stimulation (39.2%), low sensitivity to punishment (39.1%), and behavioral activation (21.7%). Significant differences were found among profiles and risky behaviors, with Profile 1 "preference for reward/stimulation" exhibiting significantly higher levels of alcohol use and problems, drug use, gambling, and polysubstance use than other profiles. Results suggested that impulsivity, particularly marked by heightened responsiveness to rewards and elevated levels of rash impulsivity, may be associated with increased engagement in several risky behaviors, including polysubstance use and gambling. Findings offered more depth to the conceptualization of impulsivity and provided novel information on polysubstance use and behavioral addictions. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved).
Related Concept Videos
Substance Use Disorders Affecting Sleep
Understanding the concepts of physical dependence,...
Drug Abuse and Addiction: Pharmacological Phenomena
Self-Presentation: Self-Monitoring and Self-Handicapping
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings....
Borderline Personality Disorder
Genetic and Environmental Contributions
Borderline Personality...
Drug Dependence

