Impulse Control Disorder Articles

Medically reviewed by April Justice, LICSW

Impulse control disorders most frequently occur in childhood or early adulthood. Some people might refer to their symptoms as “behavioral dependencies,” meaning they lose control of their temper and struggle to avoid risky, impulsive behaviors. Each type of impulse control disorder is unique and has different symptoms, so it can be helpful to examine these symptoms to know what to look for if you or a loved one might be living with these conditions.

Types of impulse control disorders

Below are the most common types of impulse control disorders and their symptoms. 

Kleptomania

A person with kleptomania impulsively steals objects without significant value. They may experience an adrenaline rush when they steal an item and struggle to avoid their impulses. They may experience shame after engaging in the behavior. Due to the nature of their impulsive act, they may experience legal challenges. 

Kleptomania is a relatively rare disorder affecting around six out of every 1,000 people. Individuals with kleptomania may benefit from behavioral therapy to stop their destructive, impulsive actions, such as popular modalities like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). 

Intermittent explosive disorder

Intermittent explosive disorder (IED) is marked by sudden uncontrollable episodes of anger or temper tantrums that come out of nowhere. A person with this condition may cause physical damage to people or objects. These episodes often last around 30 minutes and can seem to come out of nowhere. A person with IED might experience impulsive behaviors and a racing heart during an outburst.

Oppositional defiant disorder

Oppositional defiant disorder is an impulse control condition in children. This condition is often diagnosed in preschool or early grade school and cannot be diagnosed in adults. 

People with ODD, whether a child or a teen, may resist authority and become argumentative. They may become aggressive or violent with adults who try to support them. An individual with ODD can have trouble with social skills, family relationships, and academics. 

Symptoms of this condition may include the following: 

• Extreme anger 
• A loss of temper 
• Irritability toward others
• Argumentative behavior
• A desire to rebel against authority 
• Blaming others for one’s actions 

ODD can vary in symptoms from mild to severe. If left untreated, it can develop into aggressive behavior as an adult. Some adults may be diagnosed with conduct disorder if they have ODD as children. Others may be diagnosed with antisocial personality disorder (ASPD). 

Pyromania

Pyromania is an extremely rare impulse control disorder characterized by intentionally setting fires. The person who engages in the behavior may be highly uncomfortable until they set items on fire. Pyromaniacs are fascinated by fire and may collect items related to fire-setting, such as matches, custom lighters, or cans of gasoline. 

People with pyromania struggle severely to change their actions because setting fires often calms them from emotional distress. Pyromaniacs tend to be young males, but the disorder doesn’t discriminate based on age, gender, race, religion, or sexual orientation. Pyromania doesn’t necessarily mean someone is committing the crime of arson, though it may occur. Therapy may be a beneficial treatment for this condition. 

What causes impulse control disorders? 

There is no one origin for impulse control disorders that professionals agree on. However, some environmental factors may contribute to them. The limbic system, which is responsible for memory, and the frontal lobe, which helps people have self-control, are both a part of impulse control. Environmental factors include childhood abuse, neglect, and family dysfunction.

If you are facing or witnessing abuse of any kind, the National Domestic Violence Hotline is available 24/7 for support. Call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text “START” to 88788. You can also use the online chat. 

Support options 

You don’t have to live with an impulse control disorder alone. Therapy and medication are often recommended in the treatment of these conditions. If you’re struggling with an impulse disorder, you have options. Some people may prefer online therapy through a platform like BetterHelp due to its convenience. 

Through an online platform, clients can meet with the therapist from home without having to commute to an office, which can help them avoid the potential stress of traffic, parking, or finding their therapist’s office. For clients with impulse control disorder, online therapy may be more comfortable. 

In addition to its benefits, online therapy has been proven effective. One study found that online interventions could significantly decrease aggression and anger in those struggling with impulse control or anger difficulties. 

Takeaway 

Impulse control disorders are rare mental illnesses that cause difficulty resisting impulsions. If you believe you may be living with one of these conditions, consider contacting a licensed therapist for support. You’re not alone, and these conditions are often manageable with guidance.