The article by Cyders and Smith explores the existence and implications of two related traits called positive and negative urgency. These traits refer to individuals' tendencies to engage in rash actions when experiencing extreme positive or negative affect, respectively. The authors provide evidence that these traits are distinct from other dispositions toward rash action and play distinct roles in predicting problem levels of involvement in behaviors such as alcohol consumption, binge eating, drug use, and risky sexual behavior. They identify certain gene polymorphisms associated with low serotonin and high dopamine levels, which facilitate the development of positive and negative urgency. The authors discuss the implications of this theory for clinical disorders and interventions, emphasizing the importance of understanding the link between emotionality and risky behaviors. The article also reviews empirical evidence supporting the existence of these traits, their differential correlates, and their role in comprehensive models of personality. The authors propose a theoretical framework that links emotion and action, suggesting that intense emotions can lead to ill-advised and risky behaviors, particularly when individuals are unable to inhibit their impulses.The article by Cyders and Smith explores the existence and implications of two related traits called positive and negative urgency. These traits refer to individuals' tendencies to engage in rash actions when experiencing extreme positive or negative affect, respectively. The authors provide evidence that these traits are distinct from other dispositions toward rash action and play distinct roles in predicting problem levels of involvement in behaviors such as alcohol consumption, binge eating, drug use, and risky sexual behavior. They identify certain gene polymorphisms associated with low serotonin and high dopamine levels, which facilitate the development of positive and negative urgency. The authors discuss the implications of this theory for clinical disorders and interventions, emphasizing the importance of understanding the link between emotionality and risky behaviors. The article also reviews empirical evidence supporting the existence of these traits, their differential correlates, and their role in comprehensive models of personality. The authors propose a theoretical framework that links emotion and action, suggesting that intense emotions can lead to ill-advised and risky behaviors, particularly when individuals are unable to inhibit their impulses.