Researchers posited that perhaps impulsivity more broadly predicts all three externalizing problems because those who are impulsive have general deficits in regulating/inhibiting their impulses, thus resulting in the expression of a wide array of problematic behaviors [40]. On the other hand, sensation seeking might specifically predict adolescent substance use because individuals with high sensation seeking have increased motivation for experiencing stimulation and positive emotions [41], and the use of substances might serve to regulate such affective states [40]. Although possibly less robust, the observed relation between sensation seeking and conduct problems might be explained by the fact that individuals with conduct problems are more likely to experience low autonomic arousal [42]. Because this state might be perceived as unpleasant, those with conduct problems might regulate this state by seeking stimulating experiences like delinquency [43]. Given their role in adolescent problem behaviors, impulsivity and sensation seeking are important facets of disinhibition to test as mediators in the relation between GABRA2 and externalizing problems.
