Investigating the Neurophysiological Correlates of Impulsive Decision-Making: An Empirical Study on Behavioral Responses in High-Stakes Scenarios

Abstract

Impulsive decision-making presents significant challenges in cognitive and behavioral psychology, particularly in high-stakes environments. This study aimed to explore the neurophysiological mechanisms underlying impulsive choices using electroencephalography (EEG) and behavioral assessments in a controlled experimental setting. Participants (N=120) engaged in a modified Iowa Gambling Task while their brain activity was recorded. Results indicated distinct neural patterns associated with impulsive decisions, particularly increased theta wave activity in the frontal cortex during high-risk choices. Furthermore, participants displaying higher impulsivity levels showed a significant correlation (p < 0.05) with decision-making errors and lower long-term benefits. These findings contribute to the understanding of the cognitive processes involved in impulsivity, suggesting implications for interventions targeting impulsive behaviors in clinical populations and real-world applications.