Inhibitory Response and Impulsivity in Opium Users

Abstract

Background and Objective: Opium use is one of the most common problems that impose significant social, psychological, and economic burdens on societies. Understanding the factors involved in the treatment of opium use is essential. This study aimed to evaluate inhibitory response and impulsivity in opium users. Methods: This descriptive-analytical study was conducted on 170 opium users (139 men and 31 women) who visited the Methadone Maintenance Treatment Center in Gorgan, Iran during 2022, selected through convenience sampling. The Stop Signal Task (SST) was used to assess participants' inhibitory response, and the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale (BIS) was used to measure impulsivity levels. Results: The average overall impulsivity score was 67.8±11.85. The average correct responses were 45.09±5.67, incorrect responses were 4.51±3.95, and delays were 0.96±2.32. The mean response time to each stimulus was 1290±512.83 milliseconds. There was a statistically significant correlation between impulsivity dimensions and age, correct responses and education level, and response time for inhibitory control with age and education level (P<0.05). There was no statistically significant correlation between the various dimensions of inhibitory response and impulsivity (cognitive impulsivity, non-planning impulsivity, and motor impulsivity) and overall impulsivity. Conclusion: Opium users are generally impulsive. Additionally, younger individuals and those with lower education levels are more impulsive compared to others.

Keywords

• psychological inhibition
• impulsivity
• addictive behavior
• opium