Impulsividade e procrastinação: uma análise integrativa da literatura

Abstract

In situations of high stress or extended deadlines, the manifestation of procrastination and impulsivity is commonly observed across various activities and contexts. With the advent of the digital era, coupled with the persistent effects of the pandemic, these behaviors have become even more pronounced, particularly in academic and professional environments. Within these contexts, both procrastination and impulsivity demonstrate significant correlation, contributing substantially to negative life impacts.

This study aimed to conduct an integrative literature review examining the relationship between impulsivity and procrastination. We sought to synthesize available scientific evidence and identify underlying mechanisms of this association. Eighteen articles published between 2004 and 2020 were analyzed, sourced from databases accessed through the CAFe system (Federated Academic Community), Google Scholar, PubMed, SciELO, and other scientific repositories, along with specialized books on the subject. The descriptors used were "impulsivity" and "procrastination."

Results indicated that impulsivity - frequently characterized by poor planning and immediate reward-seeking behavior - consistently predicts procrastinatory behaviors. This relationship appears to be mediated by emotional self-regulation difficulties, including high anxiety levels and avoidance patterns. These effects are particularly pronounced in academic and professional settings, though many studies lack clear delineation of how these behaviors manifest and interrelate.

Based on the reviewed literature, we conclude that interventions grounded in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and inhibitory control training prove effective in mitigating the impacts of this association. We recommend that future research adopt longitudinal designs to test causality and deepen understanding of this correlation.