Validation of the UPPS-P Impulsive Behavior Scale and Clinical Correlates of its Scores in French-Speaking Patients Starting a Residential Detoxification Program

BACKGROUND: Impulsivity is a multifaceted construct that plays a prominent role in substance use disorder (SUD). The UPPS-P model distinguishes five impulsivity components (positive urgency, negative urgency, lack of perseverance, lack of premeditation, and sensation seeking). This study aimed to explore the structure of the UPPS-P in patients hospitalized for SUDs and to investigate the relationship between the dimensions of impulsivity and clinical variables. METHOD: Inpatients of a residential detoxification service (n = 125) were recruited. A confirmatory factor analysis was performed, and associations were assessed between the components of impulsivity and clinical indexes. RESULTS: The factor analysis supported a model of impulsivity with five interrelated latent variables. Good internal consistency was found. External validity was supported by relationships with psychological difficulties. Multiple correlations (Kendall) suggested that, except for its sensation-seeking component, impulsivity is a significant risk factor for both the severity of addictive problems and their comorbidities. CONCLUSION: This study provides further evidence in favor of the 5-dimensional model of impulsivity. It highlights impulsivity as a transdiagnostic risk factor that should be considered in the management of SUD.