Impulsive vs Compulsive: Acting on Impulses or Urges?

Battling between Impulsive vs compulsive behaviors can be a task. However, both the behaviors are naturally governed by brain mechanisms that are vital for survival in all life forms.

Human behavior is often complex and varied, and it also involves many responses and reactions at the same time. Among the many behaviors, impulsivity and compulsivity are identified as being more prevalent when making decisions, although they are generally misunderstood.

You may be stuck with impulsive vs compulsive behaviors, but by understanding their differences you can learn to manage them. Gaining insight into these behaviors may lead to integrated treatment solutions for the symptoms of impulsive vs compulsive behavior patterns.

impulsive vs compulsive: what do you think instant shopping has become? (Image via Pexels/ Karolina Grabowska)

Impulsive vs Compulsivity: Determining the Differences

Impulsive vs compulsive: which behavior patterns do gaming addicts display? (Image via Freepik/ Freepik)

What are impulsive behaviors? Impulsive behaviors are spontaneous actions that are not thoroughly thought out regarding what may happen as a result of the action performed. It involves a lack of self-control leading to acting on present or momentary urges or desires. Individuals with this behavior choose immediate gratification over the long-term consequences of their actions.

Examples of impulsive behaviors may include interrupting someone during an ongoing conversation, leaving the house without the essentials, making physical contact without people's consent, excessive snacking, and shopping for non-important items.

What are compulsive behaviors? Compulsive behaviors are performed repeatedly to get rid of an urge or distress. These behaviors are often performed to relieve anxiety induced by obsessive thinking.

We engage in compulsive shopping, eating to soothe our negative emotions. (Image via Freepik/ Freepik)

Examples of compulsive behaviors and thoughts might include washing hands on a regular basis, frequently opening and closing doors, loudly repeating phrases or thoughts in the mind, counting things multiple times, praying compulsively, twirling the heir repeatedly, and frequently cracking your knuckles. You may have also heard about individuals who engage in compulsive lying.

The most basic difference between compulsive and impulsive behaviors is essentially that compulsive behaviors can be pre-planned, whereas impulsivity is pretty spontaneous in nature. For example, you don't compulsively take a trip, you go impulsively. Compulsive behaviors may result in repetition, whereas impulsive behaviors are spontaneous. Individuals may feel guilt after showing impulsivity. It appears, with regard to compulsive behaviors, that they are performed to suppress constant thoughts and anxiety.

Both may result in the occurrence of mental health issues over a period of time. It is essential to understand the underlying cause that triggers these behaviors.

Causes of Impulsive Vs Compulsive Behaviours

Identifying the causes of impusive vs compulsive behaviors can be a tricky task. (Image via Getty/ Hopeway)

The causes for both are stated below:

Neurochemical abnormalities, which involve dopamine and serotonin.
History of impulsive and compulsive behavior in the family which results in the development of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
Poor decision-making and self-control.
Underlying mental health conditions, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or substance abuse.
Traumatic life experiences or memories which trigger compulsive behaviors as a coping mechanism.
Contributing environmental factors, such as upbringing or learned behaviors.

There is definitely a strong connection between drug use and impulsive decision-making. You may act more irresponsibly when you’re intoxicated, as the consumption of drugs lowers your inhibitions.

On the other hand, addiction can become a compulsion when the urge for drug consumption becomes a daily part of your life. After years of substance abuse, when you finally try to get rid of it, the strong urges and cravings will easily overpower your decision-making, and you may most likely return to drug usage.

What are the treatment options available for impulsive vs compulsive behaviors?

Children at an early age may also display impulsive behaviors. (Image via Freepik/ Freepik)

Treatment options for impulsive vs compulsive behaviors involve a specific approach to understanding the underlying mental health conditions and their symptoms. Necessary intervention can be made at the level of a symptom, behavior, or syndrome. For instance, identifying whether your child is engaging in impulsive vs compulsive behaviors can make a huge difference in their diagnosis. Remember that children and adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder are likely to engage in impulsive behaviors.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and psychodynamically informed psychotherapy have an important role in the management of a number of impulse control and compulsive disorders.

While impulsive vs compulsive behaviors share some characteristics, they differ in many varied ways in their underlying symptoms and treatment options. Remember that impulsive vs compulsive behaviors are common symptoms of a variety of mental health conditions. Identifying and recognizing these differences is vital for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

By knowing the differences between the two, individuals can seek the necessary support and resources to address these behaviors, leading to overall well-being and a life of fulfillment.

Janvi Kapur is a counselor with a Master's degree in applied psychology with a specialization in clinical psychology.

What do you think of this story? Tell us in the comments section below.