The UPPS Impulsive Behavior Scale: Factor structure and associations with college drinking

The Impulsive Behavior Scale was developed by Whiteside and Lynam (2001) to assess several different facets of impulsivity and it has been linked to a number of outcomes. The present study used exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) to examine the factor structure of the scale. Furthermore, the concurrent validity of the Impulsive Behavior Scale in relation to alcohol use and alcohol-related problems was examined. Results supported a four-factor structure of the scale, although several items were removed as a result of the EFA. In accord with theory and previous findings, the four subscales demonstrated differential relations with alcohol use and problems. Theoretical and practical implications of the results are discussed.