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Impulsivity and Sensation Seeking: Differing Associations with Psychological Well-Being

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Abstract

Sensation seeking and lack of inhibition are often discussed as risk factors for hazardous and maladaptive behavior, particularly during the transition into adulthood. However, some degree and types of novelty-seeking and exploration may also be adaptive and conducive to psychological well-being. The current study examines associations between sensation seeking, impulsivity, and well-being in a large US adult sample (n = 1399, mean age = 36.2 years, range: 18–78). As conceptualized by the UPPS-P model (Whiteside and Lynam, Personality and Individual Differences, 30(4), 669-689, 2001), sensation seeking (pursuit of stimulation) was distinguished from other forms of impulsivity (lack of inhibition) by having a positive association with psychological well-being, eudaimonic well-being, and mental health status. Those positive relations were stronger for younger adults compared to older adults. Negative urgency, lack of perseverance, lack of premeditation, and positive urgency all held either negative or null associations with well-being. Findings indicate that sensation seeking has positive associations with psychological and eudaimonic well-being, in contrast to other elements of impulsivity, and particularly among younger adults.

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Acknowledgments

This work was supported by a grant from the University of Missouri Research Council.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Human Development & Family Science, University of Missouri, 314 Gentry, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA

    Russell D. Ravert

  2. Department of Psychology, Michigan State University, Psychology Building 252C, 316 Physics Rd., East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA

    M. Brent Donnellan

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  1. Russell D. Ravert
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Correspondence to Russell D. Ravert.

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Ravert, R.D., Donnellan, M.B. Impulsivity and Sensation Seeking: Differing Associations with Psychological Well-Being. Applied Research Quality Life 16, 1503–1515 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11482-020-09829-y

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