High BAS, but not low BIS, predicts externalizing symptoms in adults

The current study examined the role of Behavioral Approach System (BAS) and Behavioral Inhibition System (BIS) sensitivity in predicting symptoms along the externalizing dimension of psychopathology. A sample of 273 undergraduates completed measures of BAS, BIS, and externalizing disorder symptomatology. Regression analyses indicated that high BAS predicted drug abuse, alcohol abuse, primary and secondary psychopathy, and hyperactive–impulsive AD/HD symptoms. Whereas low BIS predicted drug use and hyperactive–impulsive symptoms only, high BIS predicted secondary psychopathy and inattentive AD/HD symptoms. These results replicate previous findings and suggest that high BAS is closely associated with the externalizing dimension. In contrast, the results from the current study call into question the role of low BIS in externalizing disorders and provide only limited support for the joint-subsystems hypothesis in this context.