Executive function mediates the relationship between impulsivity and aggressive behavior in adolescents

Using the three-dimensional model of executive function and the I3 theory of aggressive behavior, we examined the mediating roles of inhibition, working memory, and cognitive flexibility in the relationship between impulsivity and both proactive and reactive aggression in adolescents. We recruited 1,462 middle school and high school students in Sichuan Province, who completed the Reactive–Proactive Aggression Questionnaire, the Barratt Impulsivity Scale, the Teenage Executive Function Inventory, and the Cognitive Flexibility Questionnaire. Results showed that impulsivity was positively correlated with both proactive and reactive aggression, and was negatively correlated with the three subcomponents of executive function. The three-dimensional components of executive function in adolescents were negatively correlated with both proactive and reactive aggression. Further, impulsivity directly predicted both proactive and reactive aggression. In addition, all three subcomponents of executive function in parallel mediated the relationship between impulsivity and proactive aggression. However, only inhibition mediated the relationship between impulsivity and reactive aggression. In conclusion, improving executive function may reduce the impact of impulsivity on aggression.