These impulsive behaviors may occur repeatedly, quickly, and without consideration of the consequences of the actions.
The immediate sense of relief from acting on an impulsive behavior is short-lived, however.
Feelings such as guilt or shame may follow.
Employee stealing money from the cash register.Getty / E+ / Fertnig
Many types of impulse control disorders are thought to stem from underlying neurological vulnerabilities coupled with environmental stresses.
Additional mental health issues, such asbipolarorpersonality disorders, often coexist in people with an impulse control disorder.
Treatments may differ for specific disorders.
It is common for many convicted arsonists with evident pyromania to also have personality disorders such asantisocialandborderline personality disorders.
Research on treatments is somewhat limited because this condition is rare.
Kleptomania
Kleptomania is the constant and irresistible urge to steal.
People who have this impulse control disorder often steal items that have little personal or monetary value.
Effective treatment options for kleptomania may vary depending on the subtype.
Studies have found a link betweenpost-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)and intermittent explosive disorder.
Individuals with intermittent explosive disorder may benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy to learn relaxation and coping skills.
Thus, trichotillomania involves a compulsive urge to pull out your own hair.
This impulsive behavior is more common in children and teens.
When it does appear in adults, women have it nine times as often as men.
Conduct disorder andattention-deficit hyperactivity disorder(ADHD) often go hand-in-hand.
Having this impulse control disorder in childhood commonly precedes the development of antisocial personality disorder in adulthood.
Oppositional Defiant Disorder
Like with conduct disorder, oppositional defiant disorder is diagnosed in childhood and adolescence.
Its symptoms include irritable mood, being argumentative or defiant, and engaging in vindictive behaviors.
Problematic internet use, for instance, may be classified as an unspecified impulse control disorder.
Treatment varies based on the impulse symptoms and severity.
In some cases, medications can also enhance the treatment process, especially if there are other co-existing conditions.
The punch in of medication prescribed can vary depending on which disorder exists.
Frequently Asked Questions
Excessive gambling is no longer considered an impulse control disorder.
Genetics, substance use, and trauma can all increase the risk of an impulsive disorder.
The number of children with impulse control issues varies depending on the pop in.
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