Impulse control disorders
Impulse Control Disorders
Impulse control disorders (pronounced im-puhls kuhn-trohl dis-or-ders) are a group of psychiatric disorders that are characterized by an individual's inability to resist an impulse, drive, or temptation to perform an act that is harmful to the person or to others.
Etymology
The term "impulse control disorders" is derived from the Latin word "impulsus" which means "pushed against" and the Greek word "kratos" which means "power or rule". This term was first used in the medical literature in the late 20th century.
Types of Impulse Control Disorders
There are several types of impulse control disorders, including:
- Kleptomania - an impulse control disorder characterized by the recurrent failure to resist urges to steal items that are not needed for personal use or monetary value.
- Pyromania - a disorder characterized by an irresistible urge to set fires.
- Pathological Gambling - a disorder characterized by a persistent and recurrent maladaptive pattern of gambling behavior.
- Intermittent Explosive Disorder - a disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of aggressive behavior that result in harm to others or destruction of property.
- Trichotillomania - a disorder characterized by recurrent pulling out of one's own hair.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of impulse control disorders include:
- Inability to resist impulses
- Increasing sense of tension before committing the act
- Pleasure or relief during the act
- Feelings of guilt or remorse afterwards
Treatment
Treatment for impulse control disorders often involves a combination of Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and medication.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Impulse control disorders
- Wikipedia's article - Impulse control disorders
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