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The effect of impulsivity and empathy on abstinence of poly‐substance abusers: a prospective study
Author(s) -
McCOWN WILLIAM
Publication year - 1990
Publication title -
british journal of addiction
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.424
H-Index - 193
eISSN - 1360-0443
pISSN - 0952-0481
DOI - 10.1111/j.1360-0443.1990.tb03524.x
Subject(s) - empathy , abstinence , impulsivity , psychology , clinical psychology , psychiatry , psychotherapist
The relation between impulsivity, empathy, and abstinence of poly‐substance abusers in self‐help groups is investigated prospectively. Utilizing S. B. G Eysenck et al. ’Impulsivity Questionnaire (17), new self‐help’ club' members were assessed for traits of empathy and impulsivity. Abstinence was assessed one year later. Impulsivity correlated negatively with abstinence and positively with numbers of ‘slips’. Contrary to previous research, empathy failed to correlate with either variable. Possible interpretations and future research directions are discussed.