Impulsivity and Sexual Assault

Abstract

The processes that underlie sexual assault perpetration and victimization are varied and complex, but impulsivity is one factor related to both perpetrators and survivors. Impulsivity is a multidimensional construct generally marked by a diminished ability to delay gratification, acting with insufficient forethought of consequences, disinhibition or lack of self-discipline, poor self-regulation, and sensation seeking. These factors of impulsivity fall into three distinct facets: impulsive behavioral choice, impulsive action, and impulsive personality traits. Impulsive sexual decision-making refers to patterns of choices surrounding sexual behaviors with little regard for or forethought of the potential for negative consequences. Literature reviewed here indicates that impulsivity is associated with both sexual assault perpetration and victimization, although these relationships are complicated and understudied. In some cases, substance use or hostile masculinity better accounts for the association between impulsivity and sexual assault perpetration. However, perpetration of more deviant forms of sexual assault (e.g., pedophilia) is not related to impulsivity. Conversely, impulsive sexual decision-making appears to be a consequence of sexual assault for some survivors, as evidenced by greater likelihood of engaging in unprotected sex. Survivors of sexual assault have a greater likelihood of engaging in sexual risk behaviors, such as unprotected sexual intercourse and having a higher number of casual sexual partners. Avoidant coping and impulsive behavioral choice could possibly explain these survivors’ risky sexual behaviors. Taken together, much remains left for investigation to clarify the associations between impulsivity, sexual assault perpetration, and sexual victimization.