Low self‐control, as indexed by high impulsivity, sensation seeking, and disinhibition, has been associated with engaging in risky behavior, including unprotected sexual intercourse 13 and substance use (initiation) or abuse. 22 , 23 A review by Bezdjian et al. showed heritability for different indices of self‐control of around 50% across 41 studies including around 27,000 infants, children, adolescents, and adults. 24 These findings suggest that genetic factors, at least in part, modulate various aspects of self‐control. Specifically, CADM2 has been associated with sensation seeking, 23 hyperactivity, and impulsivity. 25 This suggests potential shared heritability between reduced self‐control and risky behavior, most likely due to overlapping underlying biological processes. 13 , 22 , 23 As such, reduced self‐control might act as intermediate phenotype, linking CADM2 and various risky behaviors.
