Impulsif

Impulsif is a French adjective meaning impulsive: acting on a sudden urge without thorough forethought. In English, the closest equivalent is impulsive. Etymology: from Late Latin impulsivus, from Latin impellere “to drive toward,” sharing a root with impulse.

In psychology, impulsivity is a multidimensional trait referring to a tendency to act prematurely or with poor self-control. It is not a single behavior but a profile of tendencies, commonly described as motor impulsivity (acting without thinking), cognitive impulsivity (rapid but often faulty judgments), and temporal impulsivity (preferring immediate rewards over larger, delayed ones). Measurement uses self-report scales such as the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale (BIS) and the UPPS-P model.

Impulsivity is associated with increased risk for several conditions, including attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), substance use disorders, gambling disorder, and some personality disorders. It can, however, be advantageous in contexts requiring quick responses or rapid adaptation. Neurobiological correlates involve frontostriatal circuits and interactions between the prefrontal cortex and limbic system, modulated by emotion, stress, and environment.

In usage, impulsif describes a person or action marked by spontaneity or lack of deliberation. The term appears in literature, psychology, and everyday French, and is often contrasted with terms like réfléchi or mesuré to express varying degrees of deliberation or self-control.