What causes impulsivity?

Impulsivity means acting quickly without thinking much, like doing the first thing that comes to mind. It's often seen as being too eager or impatient.

This behavior is especially common in ADHD, where it shows up as not waiting for one's turn, answering too quickly, interrupting others, acting without thinking about risks, and having sudden outbursts of anger.

Our brain has a big part to play in impulsivity. If the part of the brain that looks for rewards is damaged, it can make us less able to control our urge to seek rewards.

Problems in the parts of the brain that help us stop and think before acting can make us more impulsive. The front part of our brain, which is in charge of planning and controlling our immediate urges, is also vital in managing impulsivity.

Certain brain chemicals, like dopamine, are involved in impulsivity. Dopamine is a chemical that makes us feel rewarded and is linked to impulsivity.

ADHD, which is often related to impulsivity, involves differences in how dopamine works in the brain. Medicines for ADHD change how dopamine works and can help with impulsivity.

Another brain chemical, serotonin, is also linked to impulsivity. Medicines that change serotonin levels, like SSRIs, are thought to help with impulse control. Low levels of serotonin have been associated with a higher risk of impulsive aggression. However, the way serotonin affects impulsivity can vary.

Understanding impulsivity is important because it can lead to serious problems, like drug addiction. Impulsivity and addiction are connected and can influence each other. Both are related to how dopamine works in our brains.

Impulsivity is also connected to binge eating. Just as with drugs, eating affects the dopamine in our brains, which is closely tied to impulsivity. More impulsive people may be more at risk of having eating disorders.