Impulse Control Disorders

This set of flashcards covers key concepts related to impulse control disorders, including diagnostic criteria, treatment methods, and psychological theories.

What are the diagnostic features of Kleptomania?

Kleptomania is characterized by a powerful impulse to steal, an intense feeling of tension before theft, and excitement or relief during or after the act. The stealing is not motivated by monetary gain.

What is a major symptom of Pyromania?

Pyromania involves a powerful impulse to set fires, an increasing sense of tension before fire-setting, and pleasure or gratification during and after the act.

What does the Kleptomania Symptom Assessment Scale (K-SAS) measure?

The K-SAS is an 11-item self-rated scale that measures impulses, thoughts, feelings, and behaviors related to stealing over the past week.

What is the role of dopamine in impulse control disorders?

Dopamine is referred to as the 'happy' chemical; its release is linked to enjoyable behaviors. Compulsive behaviors can lead to reduced levels of dopamine, contributing to continued compulsions and addictions.

What does Miller's feeling-state theory suggest about impulse control disorders?

Miller's theory posits that intense positive feelings can become linked with specific behaviors, creating state-dependent memories that contribute to impulse control disorders.

What are the goals of covert sensitization therapy in treating kleptomania?

Covert sensitization uses classical conditioning to pair unpleasant stimuli with undesirable behaviors (like stealing) to change that behavior.

What were the main findings of Grant et al. (2008) regarding opiate antagonists?

The study found a family history of alcoholism and stronger gambling urges were associated with a positive response to treatment with opiate antagonists.

How does imaginal desensitization help treat impulse control disorders?

Imaginal desensitization helps clients visualize triggering situations without acting on their impulses, often using relaxation techniques to reduce arousal and anxiety associated with those impulses.

What is the estimated percentage of patients treated with opiate antagonists that do not show significant improvement?

Between 10% and 30% of patients treated with opiate antagonists do not show significant improvement.

What impact does earlier positive feeling-states have on later behavior according to Miller?

Earlier positive feeling-states can persist over time, influencing later behaviors and potentially leading to impulse control disorders.