It isn’t unusual for many people to have poor self-control in many areas of life. There are times when you want to eat too much or maybe become more interested in playing video games instead of going to school or work. It is natural to want to do more of what you enjoy and less of what you do not.

Things can become problematic, however, if you have trouble stopping such behaviors or controlling your emotions. a severe lack of control is called chronic impulsivity, the tendency to behave or speak based on current feelings instead of using logical reasoning. Some common examples of chronic impulsivity include impulsive spending, binge eating, and aggressive behavior. The statistics on “impulse control disorder” show that a surprising number of Americans are struggling to control their impulses. Knowing the signs and symptoms of chronic impulsivity can help you work towards finding the help you need.

Indicators of Chronic Impulsivity

The signs and symptoms of chronic impulsivity present themselves differently in children and adolescents. Depending on the specific type of impulse control disorder, symptoms and behaviors can vary. Some common behaviors include:

• Aggression
• Frequent boredom
• Difficulty with relationships
• Disregard of consequences
• Disruptive behavior
• Lack of patience
• Poor concentration
• Substance abuse
• Risky behavior

Children and adolescents with trouble controlling their emotions and behaviors may have an impulse control disorder. The condition deprives an individual of the necessary skills or the ability to maintain self-control and govern behaviors. The urge to engage or participate in repetitive, destructive behaviors without consideration of the adverse consequences that may arise can be overwhelming and all-consuming. These symptoms can ultimately lead to extreme disruptions and dysfunctions in multiple aspects, such as personal, familial, social, and academic.

The symptoms of chronic impulsivity may also reflect or overlap the symptoms of other mental health conditions. Some of the most commonly co-occurring conditions include bipolar disorder, ADHD, anxiety disorder, depression, PTSD, oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder, and antisocial personality disorder.

Causes and Risk Factors for Chronic Impulsivity

Mental health professionals are unable to identify the exact cause for the development of chronic impulsivity. The agreed upon consensus concludes that the condition is a result of combined multiple factors at play.

Genetic: Like other psychological, emotional and behavioral health disorders, chronic impulsivity appears to have a strong genetic tie. Studies show that individuals with family members experiencing illnesses such as mood disorders, anxiety, schizophrenia, etc. have higher risks of developing chronic impulsivity.

Physical: Chronic impulsivity has a high probability of developing if an imbalance occurs in the limbic system and frontal lobe of the brain linked to the functioning of emotions, planning, memory, willpower and decision-making. Similarly, an elevated level of hormones related to aggression is also believed to be a cause.

Environment: Children raised in an environment where violence, abuse, and explosive emotional reactions to certain situations are rampant are at a higher risk for developing chronic impulsivity. Being around someone who behaves impulsively may cause you to exhibit the same behavior. Other times, it can develop due to lack of role models for appropriate behaviors or emotional regulation while growing up.

Impulsive behavior can also be a way of confronting certain events, such as the death of a loved one, divorce or relocation. Some may overeat while others may go on a shopping spree to find relief, comfort, enjoyment, or escape from their current situation. For some people, however, the onset of impulsive behaviors may be an unconscious means of gaining control over situations they would otherwise feel helpless. In each scenario, chronic impulsivity is a concern that necessitates treatment.

Treatment for Chronic Impulsivity

If you or someone close to you is struggling with chronic impulsivity know that help is available. Counseling can help you to learn new ways to react and cope with stressful situations. Your reactions don’t have to be impulsive, you can take control of your emotions and behaviors.

Carolina Counseling Services – Fayetteville, NC contracts with therapists who know how to treat chronic impulsivity. Call CCS today to schedule your first appointment.

Related Articles:

• Chronic Impulsivity: Is It a Concern?
• The Impacts of Chronic Impulsivity