The Prediction of Impulsivity Dimensions From PTSD, Neighborhood Context, and Their Interaction in a Sample of Justice Involved Women

This study investigated the associations of PTSD, neighborhood crime, and their interaction with dimensions of impulsivity in a sample of 402 justice-involved women. PTSD was examined as a predictor of impulsivity dimensions and neighborhood crime was examined as a moderator of the effect of PTSD on each impulsivity dimension. Factor analysis identified dimensions of impulsivity and ordinary least squares regression examined the effect of PTSD symptoms and neighborhood conditions on each type of impulsivity. A three-factor impulsivity model was identified (lack of premeditation, sensation seeking, and urgency). Regression analyses indicated that higher PTSD symptom scores predicted two dimensions of impulsivity: greater urgency and lack of premeditation. Neighborhood crime moderated the relationship between PTSD and lack of premeditation.