Impulse Control Disorders

Many psychological problems are characterized by a loss of control or a lack of control in specific situations. Usually, this lack of control is part of a pattern of behavior that also involves other maladaptive thoughts and actions, such as substance abuse problems or sexual disorders like the paraphilias (e.g. pedophilia and exhibitionism). When loss of control is only a component of a disorder, it usually does not have to be a part of the behavior pattern, and other symptoms must also be present for the diagnosis to be made. The impulse control disorders are a loosely grouped set of conditions that have in common that they all centrally feature behavior that is acted out in an uncontrolled, and impulsive manner that often has self-destructive consequences. Only One Click! Become Panic And Anxiety Free Without Using Medication and Finally Begin To Live Your Life! Impulse-control disorders are thought to have both neurological and environmental causes and are known to be exacerbated by stress . Some mental health professionals regard several of these disorders, such as compulsive gambling or shopping, as addictions. In impulse-control disorder, the impulse action is typically preceded by feelings of tension and excitement and followed by a sense of relief and gratification, often—but not always— accompanied by guilt or remorse. Impulse control disorders include five conditions that involve a recurrent failure to resist impulsive behaviors that harm one's self or others: intermittent explosive disorder, pyromania, kleptomania, trichotillomania, and compulsive gambling disorder. Intermittent explosive disorder involves unusually aggressive and violent outbursts. Pyromania is characterized by repetitive and purposeful fire-setting. Kleptomania involves urges to steal and repetitive acts of unnecessary theft. Trichotillomania is recurrent pulling out of hair. Compulsive gambling disorder is maladaptive, repetitive gambling. Repetitive self mutilation is considered by some experts to be a type of impulse control disorder. In this condition, people cause intentional harm to themselves through burning, cutting, or scratching. Impulse Control Disorders include addictions to alcohol, drugs, substance abuse, eating disorders, pedophilia, and sexual promiscuity. Compulsive liars go to great lengths to deceive others and thus satisfy their uncontrollable urge. Take Action If You Want To Fully Cure Your Anxiety And Panic Attacks Once And For All The research on treatments for impulse control disorders has largely focused on the use of cognitive behavioral therapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy can help a person learn to relax, cope with stress, combat negative thoughts, and prevent damaging behaviors. In small studies, this type of treatment has been shown to be effective for kleptomania, pathological gambling,trichotillomania,^{50, 51} and compulsive sexuality issues. Although no studies have yet investigated psychotherapeutic treatments for intermittent explosive disorder, cognitive behavioral therapy is often an effective treatment for similar anger issues.