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Impulse Control Disorders

Impulse Control Disorders
impulse control disorder man with broken glass
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People With Impulse Control Disorders

  • Cannot resist the urge to hurt themselves or others
  • May cause physical, or financial harm to themselves
  • May also behave in ways that cause them to lose friends.

Impulse Control Disorders include:

  • Kleptomania
  • Cutting
  • Pyromania
  • Excessive gambling
  • Compulsive shopping.

Risk Factors

Both internal and external stressors are known triggers for impaired control. Many types of Impulse Control Disorders are thought to stem from underlying neurological vulnerabilities coupled with environmental stresses.

Some risk factors include:

  • Being male (males are more prone to impulse control disorders than females)
  • Genetic predisposition
  • Chronic drug or alcohol use
  • Being subjected to trauma, abuse, or neglect
  • Exposure to violence or aggression.

Certain types of “chemical imbalances” may contribute to an Impulse Control Disorder in some individuals. Additional mental health issues, such as Depression or Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), often coexist in people with an Impulse Control Disorder.

Source: Tull, 2019.

© Source: Tull, 2019.
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