Similarly, findings that yohimbine impairs response inhibition (Swann et al., 2005a) are convergent with the results of pharmacological challenges in rats, demonstrating improvements in action cancellation following atomoxetine (Robinson et al., 2008). They are also consistent with the hypothesis that a sensitized response to catecholamine activity promotes impulsivity in mania (Swann et al., 2003, 2005a). There has been relatively little research into the relationship between impulsivity as a trait and its impact upon behavioral control under different kinds of emotional states (Benazzi, 2007). However, phasic noradrenaline activity within the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex may influence the control of responses as a function of the perceived reward value of an activity (Aston-Jones and Cohen, 2005). It is possible that heightened mood in the manic state might disrupt behavioral control through this system (Swann et al., 2005b).
