Depending on the ultimate relations we observe between impulsivity, ECF, and risk behavior, we will draw different conclusions about appropriate interventions to reduce the risk of excessive engagement in potentially addictive and harmful behaviors. If ECF eventually matures to the point where it begins to control heavy use of drugs, then efforts to improve ECF should be a focus. However, if impulsivity is the major contributor to excessive drug use, then other strategies may be needed. There is evidence that training of life skills can reduce drug use (Botvin & Schenke, 1997), but less is known about how well these skills can control drug use for those with high levels of impulsivity. Future research may need to focus on this question, especially if ECF proves not to be critical to drug use prevention.
