Measuring Compulsivity as a Self-Reported Multidimensional Transdiagnostic Construct: Large-Scale (N = 182,000) Validation of the Cambridge-Chicago Compulsivity Trait Scale

Compulsivity has potential transdiagnostic relevance to a range of psychiatric disorders, but it has not been well-characterized and there are few existing measures available for measuring the construct across clinical and nonclinical samples that have been validated at large population scale. We aimed to characterize the multidimensional latent structure of self-reported compulsivity in a population-based sample of British children and adults (N = 182,145) using the Cambridge-Chicago Compulsivity Trait Scale (CHI-T). Exploratory structural equation modeling provided evidence for a correlated two-factor model consisting of (a) Perfectionism and (b) Reward Drive dimensions. Evidence was obtained for discriminant validity in relation to the big five personality dimensions and acceptable test-retest reliability. The CHI-T, here validated at extremely large scale, is suitable for use in studies seeking to understand the correlates and basis of compulsivity in clinical and nonclinical participants. We provide extensive normative data to facilitate interpretation in future studies.

Differential Effects of Reward Drive and Rash Impulsivity on the Consumption of a Range of Hedonic Stimuli

Background and aims Impulsivity has consistently been associated with over-consumption and addiction. Recent research has reconceptualized impulsivity as a two-dimensional construct ( Dawe, Gullo, & Loxton, 2004 ). This study explores the relationship of the two components of impulsivity, reward drive (RD) and rash impulsivity (RI), on a broad group of 23 hedonic consumption behaviors (e.g., gambling, substance use, eating, and media use). We tentatively grouped the behaviors into three descriptive classes: entertainment, foodstuffs, and illicit activities and substances. Results RD and RI positively predicted elevated levels of consumption in a community sample (N=5,391; 51% female), for the vast majority of the behaviors considered. However, the effect sizes for RD and RI varied significantly depending on the behavior; a pattern that appeared to be at least partially attributable to the class of consumption. Results support the view that RD is related more strongly to the consumption of products that provide social engagement or a sense of increased status; whereas RI better reflects an approach toward illicit or restricted products that are intensely rewarding with clear negative consequences. Discussion and conclusion Results support the utility of the two-factor model of impulsivity in explaining individual differences in patterns of hedonic consumption in the general population. We discuss findings in terms of strengthening current conceptualizations of RI and RD as having distinct implications with respect to health-related behaviors.