Functional impulsivity and reinforcement sensitivity theory

ABSTRACT In this article, we attempt to integrate Dickman’s (1990) descriptive concept of Functional Impulsivity (FI) with Gray’s (1970, 1991) Reinforcement Sensitivity Theory (RST). Specifically, we consider that FI bears great conceptual similarity to Gray’s concept of reward-reactivity, which is thought to be caused by the combined effects of a Behavioral Activation System (BAS) and Behavioral Inhibition System (BIS). In our first study, we examine the construct validity and structural correlates of FI. Results indicate that FI is related positively to measures of BAS and Extraversion, negatively to measures of BIS and Neurotic-ism, and is separate from Psychoticism and typical trait Impulsivity, which Dickman calls Dysfunctional Impulsivity (DI). In our second study, we use a go/no-go discrimination task to examine the relationship be-tween FI and response bias under conditions of rewarding and punishing feedback. Results indicate that FI, along with two measures of BAS, predicted the development of a response bias for the rewarded alternative. In comparison, high DI appeared to reflect indifference toward either re-ward or punishment. We consider how these findings might reconcile the perspectives of Gray and Dickman and help clarify the broader under-standing of Impulsivity. We are indebted to Dr. Alan Pickering of Goldsmiths College, The University of London, for his many helpful comments on an earlier version of this article. We also thank Paul Jackson, who wrote the experimental task used in Study 2