Psychometric properties of impulsivity measures: temporal stability, validity and factor structure

Temporal stability, discriminant validity, and factor structure of an array of performance measures of impulsivity was assessed within samples of normal (N = 48) and behaviorally disordered children (N = 88) ages 6-16 (126 M, 10 F; mean age = 10.57 years; SD = 2.13). Using a relatively conservative standard for adequate temporal stability, 31% of the variables derived from these measures met criterion. Of these, 83% were able to discriminate groups after partialling out the effects of intellectual aptitude and age. Factor analysis yielded a two-factor solution interpreted as representing cognitive (inhibitory control) and motivational (insensitivity to punishment/nonreward) components of impulsivity.