Time-Based Training May Help Decreased Impulsivity

First Posted: Feb 04, 2015 05:01 PM EST
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Researchers at Kansas State University have found that time -based training may decrease impulsivity in some individuals. The study authors noted that this research could be essential in developing behavioral approaches to treat disorders like attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), substance abuse and/or obesity.

"Our previous research found that individual rats with greater self-control have a better understanding of delays, which means that they can wait for a longer period of time to earn a larger reward," said Kimberly Kirkpatrick, professor of psychological sciences at Kansas State University, in a news release. "We more recently conducted experiments to determine if we could teach individual rats to be less impulsive and found that time-based interventions can be an effective mechanism to increase self-control."

Furthermore, Kirkpatrick noted how these time-based interventions could potentially help some make better choices.

"For example, we all know some of us are better at deferring the chocolate cake and opting for the fruit platter instead, whereas others are prone to giving in and making these impulsive choices," she said. "We hope these interventions can help those more impulsive individuals learn not to choose the chocolate cake -- at least not every time."

For the study, researchers examined the behaviors of rats in terms of timing and decision-making, specifically looking for alternative ways to treat ADHD in mind.

"Up to 15 percent of the population may suffer from ADHD during development and our main way of treating it is with medication," Kirkpatrick said. "We think having alternatives is a good thing. If we could use behavioral interventions to help people gain better self-control, we think this could be a nice addition or alternative to medication."

The researchers are currently working on the development of a test game to teach children that a delayed response may earn them even bigger prizes. The space invader game has children shoot missiles at targets. However, the children must wait for the missile to charge before they can shoot it. Determining how long to wait is an essential part of delayed reactions and the study results. 

Based on the findings of game trials, researchers are hoping to use this information to potentially defer impulsive choices in overweight or obese children.

More information regarding the findings can be seen via the Journal of Behavioral Processes.

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