Explanations
Common Characteristics
Treatment
100

What type of measure is used in the Kleptomania Symptom Assessment Scale (K-SAS)?

Scale of 0 to 4 (or 5), with 0 being no symptoms, and 4 or 5 being severe.

100

How are impulse control disorders defined?

Repeated inability to resist the impulse or urge to carry out a behavior.

100

What are the two primary psychological methods of treating impulse control disorders?

Covert sensitization and imaginal desensitization.

200

What are the 3 primary ICDs laid out in the book?

Pyromania (setting fires)

Kleptomania (stealing)

Gambling disorder

200

What three behaviors resemble an impulse control disorder?

Impaired control regarding impulses (i.e. length of time)

Impulse given priority over other activities or interests.

Impulse continuing or increasing despite negative consequences.

200

What are opiate antagonists?

Group of drugs used to treat impulse disorders by blocking reward centers in the brain.

300

What is Miller’s feeling-state theory?

Relies on underlying thoughts about particular behaviors to explain obsessions.

intense desire + intense positive experience = feeling state.

Feeling-state is an example of positive reinforcement for impulsive behaviors.

300

What are common long(er)-term consequences of impulsive behaviors?

Harm to themselves or others, distress, or significant impairment to some aspect of life.

300

How does Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) work?

By teaching emotional regulation, distress tolerance, mindfulness, and communication.