Craving and Impulsivity in Alcohol Use Disorder: An Explanatory Model

Abstract

Lack of impulse control and craving, characterized by intense desire and disinhibition toward the substance, are key factors in relapse and, consequently, in treatment efficacy. The objective of this study was to develop an explanatory model analyzing the relationship among sociodemographic variables, craving, and impulsivity in a sample of 77 single-substance users diagnosed with alcohol use disorder in residential or outpatient treatment. Univariate, bivariate, and multivariate analyses were conducted to examine the individual and joint contributions of the variables included in the model. Results revealed a predominance of low impulsivity levels, mild craving levels, and a history of substance use exceeding five years. Duration of alcohol use and craving were identified as significant predictors of impulsivity, highlighting the need to address these variables in any intervention. Furthermore, a moderate positive correlation was observed between impulsivity and craving, suggesting that prolonged alcohol use may intensify impulse control dysfunction. Finally, results were discussed, limitations were highlighted, and recommendations for psychological treatment were proposed.