Addiction Potential Based-on Atypical Anxious-Impulsive Pattern of Social Anxiety: The Role of Anger and Impulsivity

Objectives The present research aimed to study the addiction potential in social anxiety based on atypical anxious-impulsive pattern of this disorder (with regard to anger and impulsivity).  Methods This research was carried out with correlational design and predictive capability. For this purpose, among the students of Arak University, a sample of 470 students were selected based on convenience sampling method. At first, the Connor Social Phobia Inventory (SPIN), Zargar addiction potential, Novaco anger and Dickman impulsivity scales were administered to them. After the assessment of the results, 119 participants who had social anxiety (scores 19 and more) and their lie scale of addiction potential was without any problem, were recruited for the study.  Results Analysis by simultaneous multiple regression indicated that anger and impulsivity predicted almost 38% of variance of addiction potential in individuals with social anxiety (F=35.395; P<0.001), and impulsivity had significant role in this prediction (β=0.542), while the anger did not have any significant role.  Conclusion In conclusion, impulsivity is a very important variable that according to its atypical anxious-impulsive pattern of social anxiety, it is necessary to be seriously considered in understanding addiction potential of individuals with social anxiety and in reduction of pathologies related to them.