Treating Impulsivity in Psychosis

This chapter offers a structured intervention for impulsivity in psychosis, aiming to reduce high-risk behaviors and improve self-control. It begins with assessment using the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale, Lifetime History of Impulsive Behaviors, UPPS-P, and the Impulsive Compulsive Behaviors Checklist. The treatment module comprises two main strands: mindfulness-based approaches (mindful breathing, body scan, urge surfing) and attention-training methods, including attention bias modification, cognitive control training, attentional flexibility training, and mindfulness-based attention training. These techniques are presented as practical tools for increasing awareness of impulses, lengthening the pause before action, and supporting safer, more deliberate behavior in people with psychosis.