Insufficient self-control schema, outlined originally by Jeffrey Young, is the experience of states of impulsiveness, usually related to behaviors such as disordered eating , substance use, excessive screen time , shopping, and avoiding unpleasant, strenuous, or boring tasks.

Schema therapy defines the schema as originating in childhood attachment experience as a reaction to negative emotions; and is not to be confused with ADHD , though the two conditions can co-exist, and not in its origin an effect of dopamine imbalance or addiction , though it may lead to them.