Differential effects of reward drive and rash impulsivity on the consumption of a range of hedonic stimuli

Differential effects of reward drive and rash impulsivity on the consumption of a range of hedonic stimuli

Background and aims:
Impulsivity has consistently been associated with over-consumption and addiction. Recent research has reconceptualised impulsivity as a two- dimensional construct (Dawe, Gullo & Loxton, 2004). The present study explores the relationship of the two components of impulsivity, reward drive (RD) and rash impulsivity (RI), on a broad group of 23 hedonic consumption behaviours (e.g., gambling, substance use, eating, media use). We tentatively grouped the behaviours into three descriptive classes: entertainment, foodstuffs, and illicit activities and substances.

Results:
RD and RI positively predicted elevated levels of consumption in a community sample (N = 5391; 51% female), for the vast majority of the behaviours considered. However, the effect sizes for RD and RI varied significantly depending on the behaviour; a pattern that appeared to be at least partially attributable to the class of consumption. Results support the view that RD is related more strongly to the consumption of products that provide social engagement or a sense of increased status; whereas RI better reflects an approach toward illicit or restricted products that are intensely rewarding with clear negative consequences.

Conclusions:
Results support the utility of the two-factor model of impulsivity in explaining individual differences in patterns of hedonic consumption in the general population. We discuss findings in terms of strengthening current conceptualisations of RI and RD as having distinct implications with respect to health-related behaviours.

© 2016 The Author(s).