In summary, numerous studies have established a role for impulsivity in the initiation of alcohol use, continued use and escalation associated with developing AUDs. However, the measures used have been highly heterogeneous, which makes it difficult to identify the neuropsychological mechanisms underlying these relationships. In addition, studies establishing the relationship between impulsivity and alcohol use were not designed to assess whether these relationships were founded on causal mechanisms. Thus, two recommendations are made for future research in this area. First, it is important to link psychological definitions of impulsivity with variations in neurological processes using a broad array of complementary neuroscience techniques. Second, it is important to examine causal relationships utilizing study designs including longitudinal, interventional and animal models.
