Impulsive behavior and mindfulness between patients with alcohol use disorder

Abstract

The impulsive behavior is an important psychological construct composed by different facets and that presents correlation with excessive alcohol consumption. In Brazil, the prevalence of alcohol dependence is around 12% of the adult population, representing an important public health issue. Mindfulness is a metacognitive ability, inherent to the human being, that can be enhanced by meditation practices, helping manage impulses, such as alcohol consumption. Nonetheless, the precise relation established between impulsive behavior and trait mindfulness are not well defined yet and the clarification of such could result in great benefit to this population. Thusly, the main goal to be achieved with this project is the relations between the various facets of impulsive behavior and of trait mindfulness description, searching for a further comprehension of how these constructs present themselves among those with alcohol use disorder. For this purpose, it will be done a transversal study with patients from both genders, older than 18 years old, that are seeking alcohol use disorder treatment in ambulatory care or specialized hospitalizations. The sample calculation foresees a minimal sample of 138 patients. For data collection, it will be used a socio-demographic survey, impulsive behavior (SUPPS-P) and trait mindfulness (FFMQ) evaluation scales and the Patient Health Questionnaire - 4 (PHQ-4). The data analysis will be done by linear and logistic regression in favor of relating associations between trait mindfulness and impulsive behavior multiple facets. (AU)