Psychology › Clinical Psychology

Gambling Behavior and Treatments

Works Count: 33374

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This cluster of papers focuses on the study of pathological gambling, its comorbidity with other psychiatric disorders, neurobiological underpinnings, prevalence, impulsivity, cognitive distortions, and treatment approaches. It also explores the correlation between adolescent gambling and parental influences. The research delves into the impact of gambling on intimate partner violence and child maltreatment, as well as the psychological and behavioral aspects of gambling addiction.

Keywords

Pathological Gambling; Comorbidity; Impulsivity; Neurobiology; Treatment; Prevalence; Cognitive Distortions; Psychiatric Correlates; Adolescent Gambling; Brain Activity

The Role of Self-Interest in Social and Political Attitudes

1991-01-01

David O. Sears , Carolyn L. Funk

Gambling and the Health of the Public: Adopting a Public Health Perspective

1999-12-01

David Korn , Howard J. Shaffer

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Adolescent Gambling Behavior: A Prevalence Study and Examination of the Correlates Associated with Problem Gambling

1998-12-01

Rina Gupta , Jeffrey L. Derevensky

Pathological gambling

2002-08-26

Namrata Raylu , Tian P. S. Oei

Prevalence of comorbid disorders in problem and pathological gambling: systematic review and meta‐analysis of population surveys

2010-11-17

Felicity Lorains , Sean Cowlishaw , Shane Thomas

ABSTRACT Aims This paper reviews evidence pertaining to the prevalence of common comorbid disorders, including alcohol use disorder, depression, substance use disorders, nicotine dependence, anxiety disorders and antisocial personality disorder, … ABSTRACT Aims This paper reviews evidence pertaining to the prevalence of common comorbid disorders, including alcohol use disorder, depression, substance use disorders, nicotine dependence, anxiety disorders and antisocial personality disorder, in population‐representative samples of problem and pathological gamblers. Methods A systematic search was conducted for peer‐reviewed and unpublished articles reported between 1 January 1998 and 20 September 2010. Only studies which examined the prevalence of comorbid conditions in problem and/or pathological gamblers from a general population sample using randomized sampling methods and standardized measurement tools were included. Meta‐analysis techniques were then performed to synthesize the included studies and estimate the weighted mean effect size and heterogeneity across studies. Results Eleven eligible studies were identified from the literature. Results from across the studies indicated that problem and pathological gamblers had high rates of other comorbid disorders. The highest mean prevalence was for nicotine dependence (60.1%), followed by a substance use disorder (57.5%), any type of mood disorder (37.9%) and any type of anxiety disorder (37.4%). However, there was evidence of moderate heterogeneity across studies, suggesting that rate estimates do not necessarily converge around a single population figure, and that weighted means should be interpreted with caution. Conclusions Problem and pathological gamblers experience high levels of other comorbid mental health disorders and screening for comorbid disorders upon entering treatment for gambling problems is recommended. Further research is required to explore the underlying causes of variability observed in the prevalence estimates.

The illusion of control.

1975-08-01

Ellen J. Langer

While most people will agree that there is much overlap between skill and luck, a full understanding of how inextricably bound the two are has yet to be attained. In … While most people will agree that there is much overlap between skill and luck, a full understanding of how inextricably bound the two are has yet to be attained. In principle the distinction seems clear. In skill situations there is a causal link between behavior and outcome. Thus, success in skill tasks is controllable. Luck, on the other hand, is a fortuitous happening. Success in luck or chance activities is apparently uncontrollable. The issue of present concern is whether or not this distinction is generally recognized. The position taken here is that it is not. While people may pay lip service to the concept of chance, they behave as though chance events are subject to control. If this is correct, it is of interest to determine the variables responsible for this confusion. … Some observational support for the assertion that people treat chance events as controllable comes from sociologists Goffman (1967) and Henslin (1967). While studying gambling practices in Las Vegas, Goffman noted that dealers who experienced runs of bad luck ran the risk of losing their jobs. Henslin studied dice playing and noted that dice players clearly behave as if they were controlling the outcome of the toss. They are careful to throw the dice softly if they want low numbers or to throw hard for high numbers. They believe that effort and concentration will pay off.

Impulsivity as a vulnerability marker for substance-use disorders: Review of findings from high-risk research, problem gamblers and genetic association studies

2008-01-01

Antonio Verdejo‐García , Andrew J. Lawrence , Luke Clark

Validation of the UPPS impulsive behaviour scale: a four‐factor model of impulsivity

2005-12-01

Stephen P. Whiteside , Donald R. Lynam , Joshua D. Miller +1 more

The current study attempts to clarify the multi‐faceted nature of impulsivity through the use of the four‐factor UPPS Impulsive Behaviour scale. In order to build the nomological network surrounding this … The current study attempts to clarify the multi‐faceted nature of impulsivity through the use of the four‐factor UPPS Impulsive Behaviour scale. In order to build the nomological network surrounding this scale, the UPPS was administered to individuals with borderline personality disorder (BPD), pathological gamblers (PG), alcohol abusers (divided into two groups based on the presence of antisocial features), and a control group. Several of the UPPS scales (e.g. Urgency, lack of Premeditation, and Sensation Seeking) differentiated the BPD, PG, and alcohol abusers with antisocial features from a group of non‐antisocial alcohol abusers and a control group. Overall, the UPPS scales accounted for between 7% (pathological gambling) and 64% (borderline personality disorder features) of the overall variance in the psychopathology measures. Individual UPPS scales also made unique contributions to several of these disorders, which may provide insight into which of these personality traits may predispose individuals to behave in maladaptive or problematic ways. The results provide support for the differentiation of impulsivity‐related constructs into the current four‐factor model. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Reliability, validity, and classification accuracy of the South Oaks Gambling Screen (SOGS)

2002-01-01

Randy Stinchfield

Measurement of psychological disorders using cognitive diagnosis models.

2006-09-01

Jonathan Templin , Robert A. Henson

Cognitive diagnosis models are constrained (multiple classification) latent class models that characterize the relationship of questionnaire responses to a set of dichotomous latent variables. Having emanated from educational measurement, several … Cognitive diagnosis models are constrained (multiple classification) latent class models that characterize the relationship of questionnaire responses to a set of dichotomous latent variables. Having emanated from educational measurement, several aspects of such models seem well suited to use in psychological assessment and diagnosis. This article presents the development of a new cognitive diagnosis model for use in psychological assessment--the DINO (deterministic input; noisy "or" gate) model--which, as an illustrative example, is applied to evaluate and diagnose pathological gamblers. As part of this example, a demonstration of the estimates obtained by cognitive diagnosis models is provided. Such estimates include the probability an individual meets each of a set of dichotomous Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (text revision [DSM-IV-TR]; American Psychiatric Association, 2000) criteria, resulting in an estimate of the probability an individual meets the DSM-IV-TR definition for being a pathological gambler. Furthermore, a demonstration of how the hypothesized underlying factors contributing to pathological gambling can be measured with the DINO model is presented, through use of a covariance structure model for the tetrachoric correlation matrix of the dichotomous latent variables representing DSM-IV-TR criteria.

Pathological gambling is linked to reduced activation of the mesolimbic reward system

2005-01-09

J.H. Reuter , Thomas J. Raedler , Michael Rose +3 more

Measures of impulsivity in cigarette smokers and non-smokers

1999-10-21

Suzanne H. Mitchell

Comorbidity of DSM-IV Pathological Gambling and Other Psychiatric Disorders

2005-05-15

Nancy M. Petry , Frederick S. Stinson , Bridget F. Grant

Article AbstractObjective: To present nationally representative data on lifetime prevalence and comorbidity of pathological gambling with other psychiatric disorders and to evaluate sex differences in the strength of the comorbid … Article AbstractObjective: To present nationally representative data on lifetime prevalence and comorbidity of pathological gambling with other psychiatric disorders and to evaluate sex differences in the strength of the comorbid associations. Method: Data were derived from a large national sample of the United States. Some 43,093 household and group quarters residents age 18 years and older participated in the 2001-2002 survey. Prevalence and associations of lifetime pathological gambling and other lifetime psychiatric disorders are presented. The diagnostic interview was the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Alcohol Use Disorder and Associated Disabilities Interview Schedule-DSM-IV Version. Fifteen symptom items operationalized the 10 pathological gambling criteria. Results: The lifetime prevalence rate of pathological gambling was 0.42%. Almost three quarters (73.2%) of pathological gamblers had an alcohol use disorder, 38.1% had a drug use disorder, 60.4% had nicotine dependence, 49.6% had a mood disorder, 41.3% had an anxiety disorder, and 60.8% had a personality disorder. A large majority of the associations between pathological gambling and substance use, mood, anxiety, and personality disorders were overwhelmingly positive and significant (p .05). Conclusion: Pathological gambling is highly comorbid with substance use, mood, anxiety, and personality disorders, suggesting that treatment for one condition should involve assessment and possible concomitant treatment for comorbid conditions.

Pathological gambling severity is associated with impulsivity in a delay discounting procedure

2003-07-31

Sheila M. Alessi , Nancy M. Petry

Self-evaluative and self-efficacy mechanisms governing the motivational effects of goal systems.

1983-11-01

Albert Bandura , Daniel Cervone

A ‘components’ model of addiction within a biopsychosocial framework

2005-01-01

Mark D. Griffiths

There is now a growing movement that views a number of behaviours as potentially addictive including many that do not involve the ingestion of a drug (such as gambling, sex, … There is now a growing movement that views a number of behaviours as potentially addictive including many that do not involve the ingestion of a drug (such as gambling, sex, exercise, videogame playing and Internet use). This paper argues that all addictions consist of a number of distinct common components (salience, mood modification, tolerance, withdrawal, conflict and relapse). The paper argues that addictions are a part of a biopsychosocial process and evidence is growing that excessive behaviours of all types do seem to have many commonalities. It is argued that an eclectic approach to the studying of addictive behaviour appears to be the most pragmatic way forward in the field. Such commonalities may have implications not only for treatment of such behaviours but also for how the general public perceive such behaviours.

Toward a theory of distinct types of “impulsive” behaviors: A meta-analysis of self-report and behavioral measures.

2013-10-07

Leigh A. Sharma , Kristian E. Markon , Lee Anna Clark

Impulsivity is considered a personality trait affecting behavior in many life domains, from recreational activities to important decision making. When extreme, it is associated with mental health problems, such as … Impulsivity is considered a personality trait affecting behavior in many life domains, from recreational activities to important decision making. When extreme, it is associated with mental health problems, such as substance use disorders, as well as with interpersonal and social difficulties, including juvenile delinquency and criminality. Yet, trait impulsivity may not be a unitary construct. We review commonly used self-report measures of personality trait impulsivity and related constructs (e.g., sensation seeking), plus the opposite pole, control or constraint. A meta-analytic principal-components factor analysis demonstrated that these scales comprise 3 distinct factors, each of which aligns with a broad, higher order personality factor-Neuroticism/Negative Emotionality, Disinhibition versus Constraint/Conscientiousness, and Extraversion/Positive Emotionality/Sensation Seeking. Moreover, Disinhibition versus Constraint/Conscientiousness comprise 2 correlated but distinct subfactors: Disinhibition versus Constraint and Conscientiousness/Will versus Resourcelessness. We also review laboratory tasks that purport to measure a construct similar to trait impulsivity. A meta-analytic principal-components factor analysis demonstrated that these tasks constitute 4 factors (Inattention, Inhibition, Impulsive Decision-Making, and Shifting). Although relations between these 2 measurement models are consistently low to very low, relations between both trait scales and laboratory behavioral tasks and daily-life impulsive behaviors are moderate. That is, both independently predict problematic daily-life impulsive behaviors, such as substance use, gambling, and delinquency; their joint use has incremental predictive power over the use of either type of measure alone and furthers our understanding of these important, problematic behaviors. Future use of confirmatory methods should help to ascertain with greater precision the number of and relations between impulsivity-related components.

A pathways model of problem and pathological gambling

2002-04-25

Alex Blaszczynski , Lia Nower

ABSTRACT At the moment, there is no single conceptual theoretical model of gambling that adequately accounts for the multiple biological, psychological and ecological variables contributing to the development of pathological … ABSTRACT At the moment, there is no single conceptual theoretical model of gambling that adequately accounts for the multiple biological, psychological and ecological variables contributing to the development of pathological gambling. Advances in this area are hampered by imprecise definitions of pathological gambling, failure to distinguish between gambling problems and problem gamblers and a tendency to assume that pathological gamblers form one, homogeneous population with similar psychological principles applying equally to all members of the class. The purpose of this paper is to advance a pathways model that integrates the complex array of biological, personality, developmental, cognitive, learning theory and ecological determinants of problem and pathological gambling. It is proposed that three distinct subgroups of gamblers manifesting impaired control over their behaviour can be identified. These groups include (a) behaviourally conditioned problem gamblers, (b) emotionally vulnerable problem gamblers and (c) antisocial, impulsivist problem gamblers. The implications for clinical management are discussed.

Pathological gambling: Etiology, comorbidity, and treatment.

2005-01-01

Nancy M. Petry

Pathological Gambling: Etiology, Comorbidity, and Treatment examines the prevalence and consequences of problem gambling as well as approaches to treatment. In this comprehensive book, Petry clarifies the current understanding of … Pathological Gambling: Etiology, Comorbidity, and Treatment examines the prevalence and consequences of problem gambling as well as approaches to treatment. In this comprehensive book, Petry clarifies the current understanding of gambling as a disorder, including its levels of intensity; possible origins in biological, neurological, developmental, and environmental spheres; and special issues surrounding populations that seem to be more susceptible to problem gambling, including youth, ethnic minorities, and those with comorbid affective disorders such as depression. The author reviews treatments commonly used for pathological gambling as well as nonprofessionally guided interventions such as Gamblers Anonymous. Petry then presents her own brief cognitive-behavioral approach, whose success is empirically proven in the largest known study of psychosocial treatments of problem gamblers. Pathological Gambling presents a review of everything currently known about problem gambling as well as promising treatment approaches, making it an invaluable, comprehensive resource for both therapists and researchers in the field.

Excessive discounting of delayed reinforcers as a trans-disease process contributing to addiction and other disease-related vulnerabilities: Emerging evidence

2012-02-22

Warren K. Bickel , David P. Jarmolowicz , E. Terry Mueller +2 more

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Heroin and cocaine abusers have higher discount rates for delayed rewards than alcoholics or non‐drug‐using controls

2004-02-13

Kris N. Kirby , Nancy M. Petry

ABSTRACT Aims To test a prediction of the discounting model of impulsiveness that discount rates would be positively associated with addiction. The delay‐discount rate refers to the rate of reduction … ABSTRACT Aims To test a prediction of the discounting model of impulsiveness that discount rates would be positively associated with addiction. The delay‐discount rate refers to the rate of reduction in the present value of a future reward as the delay to that reward increases. Design and measurements We estimated participants’ discount rates on the basis of their pattern of choices between smaller immediate rewards ($11–80) and larger, delayed rewards ($25–85; at delays from 1 week to 6 months) in a questionnaire format. Participants had a one‐in‐six chance of winning a reward that they chose on one randomly selected trial. Participants and setting Heroin ( n = 27), cocaine ( n = 41) and alcohol ( n = 33) abusers and non‐drug‐using controls ( n = 44) were recruited from advertisements. They were tested in a drug abuse research clinic at a medical school. Findings On average, the cocaine and heroin groups had higher rates than controls (both P < 0.001), but alcoholics did not ( P = 0.44). Abstinence was associated with lower rates for heroin abusers ( P = 0.03), but not for cocaine or alcohol abusers (both P > 0.50). Conclusions These data suggest that discount rates vary with the preferred drug of abuse, and that high discount rates should be considered in the development of substance abuse prevention and treatment efforts.

Heads I win, tails it's chance: The illusion of control as a function of the sequence of outcomes in a purely chance task.

1975-12-01

Ellen J. Langer , Jane Roth

A general theory of addictions: A new theoretical model

1986-01-01

Durand F. Jacobs

The neurobiology and genetics of impulse control disorders: Relationships to drug addictions

2007-07-05

Judson A. Brewer , Marc N. Potenza

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Prevalence of the Addictions: A Problem of the Majority or the Minority?

2010-09-27

Steve Sussman , Nadra E. Lisha , Mark D. Griffiths

An increasing number of research studies over the last three decades suggest that a wide range of substance and process addictions may serve similar functions. The current article considers 11 … An increasing number of research studies over the last three decades suggest that a wide range of substance and process addictions may serve similar functions. The current article considers 11 such potential addictions (tobacco, alcohol, illicit drugs, eating, gambling, Internet, love, sex, exercise, work, and shopping), their prevalence, and co-occurrence, based on a systematic review of the literature. Data from 83 studies (each study n = at least 500 subjects) were presented and supplemented with small-scale data. Depending on which assumptions are made, overall 12-month prevalence of an addiction among U.S. adults varies from 15% to 61%. The authors assert that it is most plausible that 47% of the U.S. adult population suffers from maladaptive signs of an addictive disorder over a 12-month period and that it may be useful to think of addictions as due to problems of lifestyle as well as to person-level factors.

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Anomalies: Parimutuel Betting Markets: Racetracks and Lotteries

1988-05-01

Richard H. Thaler , William T. Ziemba

Economists have given great attention to stock markets in their efforts to test the concepts of market efficiency and rationality. Yet wagering markets are, in one key respect, better suited … Economists have given great attention to stock markets in their efforts to test the concepts of market efficiency and rationality. Yet wagering markets are, in one key respect, better suited for testing market efficiency and rationality. The advantage of wagering markets is that each asset (bet) has a well-defined termination point at which its value becomes certain. The absence of this property is one of the factors that has made it so difficult to test for rationality in the stock market. Since a stock is infinitely lived, its value today depends both on the present value of future cash flows and on the price someone will pay for the security tomorrow. Indeed, one can argue that wagering markets have a better chance of being efficient because the conditions (quick, repeated feedback) are those which usually facilitate learning. However, empirical research has uncovered several interesting anomalies. While there are numerous types of wagering markets, legal and otherwise, this column will concentrate on racetrack betting and lotto-type lottery games.

'Behavioral' Addictions: Do They Exist?

2001-11-02

Constance Holden

Obsessive-compulsive, harm-avoidance and persistence tendencies in patients with gambling, gaming, compulsive sexual behavior and compulsive buying-shopping disorders/concerns, Obsessive-compulsive, harm-avoidance and persistence tendencies in patients with gambling, gaming, compulsive sexual behavior and compulsive buying-shopping disorders/concerns,

Optimal experience in work and leisure.

1989-01-01

Mihály Csíkszentmihályi , Judith LeFevre

Followed 78 adult workers for 1 week with the experience sampling method. (This method randomly samples self-reports throughout the day.) The main question was whether the quality of experience was … Followed 78 adult workers for 1 week with the experience sampling method. (This method randomly samples self-reports throughout the day.) The main question was whether the quality of experience was more influenced by whether a person was at work or at leisure or more influenced by whether a person was in flow (i.e., in a condition of high challenges and skills). Results showed that all the variables measuring the quality of experience, except for relaxation and motivation, are more affected by flow than by whether the respondent is working or in leisure. Moreover, the great majority of flow experiences are reported when working, not when in leisure. Regardless of the quality of experience, however, respondents are more motivated in leisure than in work. But individuals more motivated in flow than in apathy reported more positive experiences in work. Results suggest implications for improving the quality of everyday life.

Natural Recovery and Treatment-Seeking in Pathological Gambling: Results of Two U.S. National Surveys

2006-01-31

Wendy S. Slutske

OBJECTIVE: Pathological gambling is described in DSM-IV as a chronic and persisting disorder, but recent community-based longitudinal studies that have highlighted the transitory nature of gambling-related problems have called into … OBJECTIVE: Pathological gambling is described in DSM-IV as a chronic and persisting disorder, but recent community-based longitudinal studies that have highlighted the transitory nature of gambling-related problems have called into question whether this is an accurate characterization. This emerging evidence of high rates of recovery coupled with low rates of treatment-seeking for pathological gambling suggests that natural recovery might be common. The purpose of the present study was to document the rates of recovery, treatment-seeking, and natural recovery among individuals with DSM-IV pathological gambling disorder in two large and representative U.S. national surveys. METHOD: Prevalences of recovery, treatment-seeking, and natural recovery were estimated among individuals from the Gambling Impact and Behavior Study (N=2,417) and the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions (N=43,093) who reported a lifetime history of DSM-IV pathological gambling disorder (N=21 and N=185, respectively). RESULTS: Among individuals with a lifetime history of DSM-IV pathological gambling, 36%–39% did not experience any gambling-related problems in the past year, even though only 7%–12% had ever sought either formal treatment or attended meetings of Gamblers Anonymous. About one-third of the individuals with pathological gambling disorder in these two nationally representative U.S. samples were characterized by natural recovery. CONCLUSIONS: Pathological gambling may not always follow a chronic and persisting course. A substantial portion of individuals with a history of pathological gambling eventually recover, most without formal treatment. The results of large epidemiological surveys of pathological gambling may eventually overturn the established wisdom about pathological gambling disorder.

‘Binge’ drinking, British alcohol policy and the new culture of intoxication

2005-11-11

Fiona Measham , Kevin Brain

Against the backdrop of a long-standing British ‘binge and brawl’ pattern of alcohol-based weekend leisure and concomitant recurrent anxieties in the media surrounding youth and young adults at play, this … Against the backdrop of a long-standing British ‘binge and brawl’ pattern of alcohol-based weekend leisure and concomitant recurrent anxieties in the media surrounding youth and young adults at play, this article considers the cultural distinctions of contemporary British leisure and the evidence for a ‘new’ culture of intoxication. Four key changes are identified which together, the authors argue, suggest significant change is underway in respect of patterns of alcohol consumption in the UK. Presenting empirical data for the first time, the article considers how one might assess the evidence for a new culture of intoxication which embraces both legal and illicit drugs and which encompasses a broad social spectrum of young people. The study concludes that the pursuit of altered states of intoxication must be positioned in late modern society as behaviour which is a vehicle for consumer and criminal justice discourses, both encouraged by economic deregulation and constrained by legislative change, indicative of the ambiguities at the heart of British alcohol policy.

Who drinks and why? A review of socio-demographic, personality, and contextual issues behind the drinking motives in young people

2006-02-08

Emmanuel Kuntsche , Ronald A. Knibbe , Gerhard Gmel +1 more

Gambling and Related Mental Disorders: A Public Health Analysis

2002-05-01

Howard J. Shaffer , David Korn

▪ Abstract This article reviews the prevalence of gambling and related mental disorders from a public health perspective. It traces the expansion of gambling in North America and the psychological, … ▪ Abstract This article reviews the prevalence of gambling and related mental disorders from a public health perspective. It traces the expansion of gambling in North America and the psychological, economic, and social consequences for the public's health, and then considers both the costs and benefits of gambling and the history of gambling prevalence research. A public health approach is applied to understanding the epidemiology of gambling-related problems. International prevalence rates are provided and the prevalence of mental disorders that often are comorbid with gambling problems is reviewed. Analysis includes an examination of groups vulnerable to gambling-related disorders and the methodological and conceptual matters that might influence epidemiological research and prevalence rates related to gambling. The major public health problems associated with gambling are considered and recommendations made for public health policy, practice, and research. The enduring value of a public health perspective is that it applies different ‘lenses’ for understanding gambling behaviour, analysing its benefits and costs, as well as identifying strategies for action. Harvey A. Skinner ( 160 , p. 286)

DSM-IV pathological gambling in the National Comorbidity Survey Replication

2008-02-07

Ronald C. Kessler , I. Hwang , Richard A. LaBrie +4 more

Background Little is known about the prevalence or correlates of DSM-IV pathological gambling (PG). Method Data from the US National Comorbidity Survey Replication (NCS-R), a nationally representative US household survey, … Background Little is known about the prevalence or correlates of DSM-IV pathological gambling (PG). Method Data from the US National Comorbidity Survey Replication (NCS-R), a nationally representative US household survey, were used to assess lifetime gambling symptoms and PG along with other DSM-IV disorders. Age of onset (AOO) of each lifetime disorder was assessed retrospectively. AOO reports were used to study associations between temporally primary disorders and the subsequent risk of secondary disorders. Results Most respondents (78.4%) reported lifetime gambling. Lifetime problem gambling (at least one Criterion A symptom of PG) (2.3%) and PG (0.6%) were much less common. PG was significantly associated with being young, male, and Non-Hispanic Black. People with PG reported first gambling significantly earlier than non-problem gamblers (mean age 16.7 v . 23.9 years, z =12.7, p <0.001), with gambling problems typically beginning during the mid-20s and persisting for an average of 9.4 years. During this time the largest annual gambling losses averaged US$4800. Onset and persistence of PG were predicted by a variety of prior DSM-IV anxiety, mood, impulse-control and substance use disorders. PG also predicted the subsequent onset of generalized anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance dependence. Although none of the NCS-R respondents with PG ever received treatment for gambling problems, 49.0% were treated at some time for other mental disorders. Conclusions DSM-IV PG is a comparatively rare, seriously impairing, and undertreated disorder whose symptoms typically start during early adulthood and is frequently secondary to other mental or substance disorders that are associated with both PG onset and persistence.

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Introduction to Behavioral Addictions

2010-06-21

Jon E. Grant , Marc N. Potenza , Aviv Weinstein +1 more

Background: Several behaviors, besides psychoactive substance ingestion, produce short-term reward that may engender persistent behavior, despite knowledge of adverse consequences, i.e., diminished control over the behavior. These disorders have historically … Background: Several behaviors, besides psychoactive substance ingestion, produce short-term reward that may engender persistent behavior, despite knowledge of adverse consequences, i.e., diminished control over the behavior. These disorders have historically been conceptualized in several ways. One view posits these disorders as lying along an impulsive-compulsive spectrum, with some classified as impulse control disorders. An alternate, but not mutually exclusive, conceptualization considers the disorders as non-substance or "behavioral" addictions. Objectives: Inform the discussion on the relationship between psychoactive substance and behavioral addictions. Methods: We review data illustrating similarities and differences between impulse control disorders or behavioral addictions and substance addictions. This topic is particularly relevant to the optimal classification of these disorders in the forthcoming fifth edition of the American Psychiatric Association Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V). Results: Growing evidence suggests that behavioral addictions resemble substance addictions in many domains, including natural history, phenomenology, tolerance, comorbidity, overlapping genetic contribution, neurobiological mechanisms, and response to treatment, supporting the DSM-V Task Force proposed new category of Addiction and Related Disorders encompassing both substance use disorders and non-substance addictions. Current data suggest that this combined category may be appropriate for pathological gambling and a few other better studied behavioral addictions, e.g., Internet addiction. There is currently insufficient data to justify any classification of other proposed behavioral addictions. Conclusions and Scientific Significance: Proper categorization of behavioral addictions or impulse control disorders has substantial implications for the development of improved prevention and treatment strategies.

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Estimating the prevalence of disordered gambling behavior in the United States and Canada: a research synthesis.

1999-09-01

Howard J. Shaffer , Matthew N. Hall , Joni Vander Bilt

OBJECTIVES: This study developed prevalence estimates of gambling-related disorders in the United States and Canada, identified differences in prevalence among population segments, and identified changes in prevalence over the past … OBJECTIVES: This study developed prevalence estimates of gambling-related disorders in the United States and Canada, identified differences in prevalence among population segments, and identified changes in prevalence over the past 20 years. METHODS: A meta-analytic strategy was employed to synthesize estimates from 119 prevalence studies. This method produced more reliable prevalence rates than were available from any single study. RESULTS: Prevalence estimates among samples of adolescents were significantly higher than estimates among samples of adults for both clinical (level 3) and subclinical (level 2) measures of disordered gambling within both lifetime and past-year time frames (e.g., 3.9% vs 1.6% for lifetime estimates of level 3 gambling). Among adults, prevalence estimates of disordered gambling have increased significantly during the past 20 years. CONCLUSIONS: Membership in youth, treatment, or prison population segments is significantly associated with experiencing gambling-related disorders. Understanding subclinical gamblers provides a meaningful opportunity to lower the public health burden associated with gambling disorders. Further research is necessary to determine whether the prevalence of disordered gambling will continue to increase among the general adult population and how prevalence among adolescents will change as this cohort ages.

Toward a Syndrome Model of Addiction: Multiple Expressions, Common Etiology

2004-11-01

Howard J. Shaffer , Debi A. LaPlante , Richard A. LaBrie +3 more

Shaffer, Howard J. PhD, CAS1; LaPlante, Debi A. PhD; LaBrie, Richard A. EdD; Kidman, Rachel C. BA; Donato, Anthony N. MPP; Stanton, Michael V. BA Author Information Shaffer, Howard J. PhD, CAS1; LaPlante, Debi A. PhD; LaBrie, Richard A. EdD; Kidman, Rachel C. BA; Donato, Anthony N. MPP; Stanton, Michael V. BA Author Information

Should addictive disorders include non‐substance‐related conditions?

2006-08-08

Marc N. Potenza

ABSTRACT Aims In anticipation of the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM‐V), to consider whether addictive disorders should include non‐substance use disorders. Methods The … ABSTRACT Aims In anticipation of the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM‐V), to consider whether addictive disorders should include non‐substance use disorders. Methods The author reviewed data and provided perspective to explore whether disorders such as pathological gambling (PG) should be grouped together with substance dependence, given that they share many features. Results PG and substance dependence currently reside in the DSM, fourth edition, text revision (DSM‐IV‐TR) within separate categories, with PG classified as an impulse control disorder (ICD) and substance dependence as a substance use disorder (SUD). Arguments can be forwarded to support each categorization, as well as to justify their inclusion together as addictions. Conclusion The current state of knowledge suggests that there exist substantial similarities between PG and SUDs. Further research is indicated prior to categorizing PG and other ICDs together with SUDs.

Are we overpathologizing everyday life? A tenable blueprint for behavioral addiction research

2015-05-27

Joël Billieux , Adriano Schimmenti , Yasser Khazaal +2 more

Background Behavioral addiction research has been particularly flourishing over the last two decades. However, recent publications have suggested that nearly all daily life activities might lead to a genuine addiction. … Background Behavioral addiction research has been particularly flourishing over the last two decades. However, recent publications have suggested that nearly all daily life activities might lead to a genuine addiction. Methods and aim In this article, we discuss how the use of atheoretical and confirmatory research approaches may result in the identification of an unlimited list of “new” behavioral addictions. Results Both methodological and theoretical shortcomings of these studies were discussed. Conclusions We suggested that studies overpathologizing daily life activities are likely to prompt a dismissive appraisal of behavioral addiction research. Consequently, we proposed several roadmaps for future research in the field, centrally highlighting the need for longer tenable behavioral addiction research that shifts from a mere criteria-based approach toward an approach focusing on the psychological processes involved.

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Addiction by Design

2012-12-31

Natasha Dow Schüll

Recent decades have seen a dramatic shift away from social forms of gambling played around roulette wheels and card tables to solitary gambling at electronic terminals. Slot machines, revamped by … Recent decades have seen a dramatic shift away from social forms of gambling played around roulette wheels and card tables to solitary gambling at electronic terminals. Slot machines, revamped by ever more compelling digital and video technology, have unseated traditional casino games as the gambling industry's revenue mainstay. Addiction by Design takes readers into the intriguing world of gambling, an increasingly popular and absorbing form of play that blurs the line between human and machine, compulsion and control, risk and reward. Drawing on fifteen years of field research in Las Vegas, anthropologist Natasha Dow Schll shows how the mechanical rhythm of electronic gambling pulls players into a trancelike state they call the machine in which daily worries, social demands, and even bodily awareness fade away. Once in the zone, gambling addicts play not to win but simply to keep playing, for as long as possible--even at the cost of physical and economic exhaustion. In continuous play, gamblers seek to lose themselves while the gambling industry seeks profit. Schll describes the strategic calculations behind game algorithms and ergonomics, casino architecture and ambience management, player tracking and cash access systems--all designed to meet the market's desire for maximum time on device. Her account moves from casino floors into gamblers' everyday lives, from gambling industry conventions and Gamblers Anonymous meetings to regulatory debates over whether addiction to gambling machines stems from the consumer, the product, or the interplay between the two. Addiction by Design is a compelling inquiry into the intensifying traffic between people and machines of chance, offering clues to some of the broader anxieties and predicaments of contemporary life. At stake in Schll's account of the intensifying traffic between people and machines of chance is a blurring of the line between design and experience, profit and loss, control and compulsion.

Influence of extraversion and neuroticism on subjective well-being: Happy and unhappy people.

1980-01-01

Paul T. Costa , Robert R. McCrae

Three studies are reported that examine the relations between personality and happiness or subjective well-being. It is argued that (a) one set of traits influences positive affect or satisfaction, whereas … Three studies are reported that examine the relations between personality and happiness or subjective well-being. It is argued that (a) one set of traits influences positive affect or satisfaction, whereas a different set of traits influences negative affect or dissatisfaction; (b) the former set of traits can be reviewed as components of extraversion, and the latter as components of neuroticism; and (c) personality differences antedate and predict differences in happiness over a period of 10 years, thus ruling out the rival hypothesis that temporary moods or states account for the observed relations. A model of individual differences in happiness is presented, and the separate and complementary roles of trait and adaptation-level theories in explaining happiness are discussed.

Understanding gambling related harm: a proposed definition, conceptual framework, and taxonomy of harms

2015-12-01

Erika Langham , Hannah Thorne , Matthew Browne +3 more

Harm from gambling is known to impact individuals, families, and communities; and these harms are not restricted to people with a gambling disorder. Currently, there is no robust and inclusive … Harm from gambling is known to impact individuals, families, and communities; and these harms are not restricted to people with a gambling disorder. Currently, there is no robust and inclusive internationally agreed upon definition of gambling harm. In addition, the current landscape of gambling policy and research uses inadequate proxy measures of harm, such as problem gambling symptomology, that contribute to a limited understanding of gambling harms. These issues impede efforts to address gambling from a public health perspective. Data regarding harms from gambling was gathered using four separate methodologies, a literature review, focus groups and interviews with professionals involved in the support and treatment of gambling problems, interviews with people who gamble and their affected others, and an analysis of public forum posts for people experiencing problems with gambling and their affected others. The experience of harm related to gambling was examined to generate a conceptual framework. The catalogue of harms experienced were organised as a taxonomy. The current paper proposes a definition and conceptual framework of gambling related harm that captures the full breadth of harms that gambling can contribute to; as well as a taxonomy of harms to facilitate the development of more appropriate measures of harm. Our aim is to create a dialogue that will lead to a more coherent interpretation of gambling harm across treatment providers, policy makers and researchers.

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The Disease Concept of Alcoholism.

1961-06-01

Howard J. Ehrlich , E. M. Jellinek

The South Oaks Gambling Screen (SOGS): a new instrument for the identification of pathological gamblers

1987-09-01

H R Lesieur , Stuttgart-Hohenheim Blume

The South Oaks Gambling Screen is a 20-item questionnaire based on DSM-III criteria for pathological gambling. It may be self-administered or administered by nonprofessional or professional interviewers. A total of … The South Oaks Gambling Screen is a 20-item questionnaire based on DSM-III criteria for pathological gambling. It may be self-administered or administered by nonprofessional or professional interviewers. A total of 1,616 subjects were involved in its development: 867 patients with diagnoses of substance abuse and pathological gambling, 213 members of Gamblers Anonymous, 384 university students, and 152 hospital employees. Independent validation by family members and counselors was obtained for the calibration sample, and internal consistency and test-retest reliability were established. The instrument correlates well with the criteria of the revised version of DSM-III (DSM-III-R). It offers a convenient means to screen clinical populations of alcoholics and drug abusers, as well as general populations, for pathological gambling.

Alcoholism: theory, problem and challenge. II. Reinforcement theory and the dynamics of alcoholism.

1956-06-01

John J. Conger

Problem gambling worldwide: An update and systematic review of empirical research (2000–2015)

2016-10-26

Filipa Calado , Mark D. Griffiths

Background and aims Problem gambling has been identified as an emergent public health issue, and there is a need to identify gambling trends and to regularly update worldwide gambling prevalence … Background and aims Problem gambling has been identified as an emergent public health issue, and there is a need to identify gambling trends and to regularly update worldwide gambling prevalence rates. This paper aims to review recent research on adult gambling and problem gambling (since 2000) and then, in the context of a growing liberalization of the gambling market in the European Union, intends to provide a more detailed analysis of adult gambling behavior across European countries. Methods A systematic literature search was carried out using academic databases, Internet, and governmental websites. Results Following this search and utilizing exclusion criteria, 69 studies on adult gambling prevalence were identified. These studies demonstrated that there are wide variations in past-year problem gambling rates across different countries in the world (0.12–5.8%) and in Europe (0.12–3.4%). However, it is difficult to directly compare studies due to different methodological procedures, instruments, cut-offs, and time frames. Despite the variability among instruments, some consistent results with regard to demographics were found. Discussion and conclusion The findings highlight the need for continuous monitoring of problem gambling prevalence rates in order to examine the influence of cultural context on gambling patterns, assess the effectiveness of policies on gambling-related harms, and establish priorities for future research.

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Who Gambles in the Stock Market?

2009-07-16

Alok Kumar

ABSTRACT This study shows that the propensity to gamble and investment decisions are correlated. At the aggregate level, individual investors prefer stocks with lottery features, and like lottery demand, the … ABSTRACT This study shows that the propensity to gamble and investment decisions are correlated. At the aggregate level, individual investors prefer stocks with lottery features, and like lottery demand, the demand for lottery‐type stocks increases during economic downturns. In the cross‐section, socioeconomic factors that induce greater expenditure in lotteries are associated with greater investment in lottery‐type stocks. Further, lottery investment levels are higher in regions with favorable lottery environments. Because lottery‐type stocks underperform, gambling‐related underperformance is greater among low‐income investors who excessively overweight lottery‐type stocks. These results indicate that state lotteries and lottery‐type stocks attract very similar socioeconomic clienteles.

Sensation Seeking, Overconfidence, and Trading Activity

2009-03-13

Mark Grinblatt , Matti Keloharju

ABSTRACT This study analyzes the role that two psychological attributes—sensation seeking and overconfidence—play in the tendency of investors to trade stocks. Equity trading data from Finland are combined with data … ABSTRACT This study analyzes the role that two psychological attributes—sensation seeking and overconfidence—play in the tendency of investors to trade stocks. Equity trading data from Finland are combined with data from investor tax filings, driving records, and mandatory psychological profiles. We use these data, obtained from a large population, to construct measures of overconfidence and sensation seeking tendencies. Controlling for a host of variables, including wealth, income, age, number of stocks owned, marital status, and occupation, we find that overconfident investors and those investors most prone to sensation seeking trade more frequently.

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The Natural History of Alcoholism

1983-01-01

John R. Taylor , John E. Helzer

Factors Related to Depressive Symptoms in People with Gambling Disorder

2025-06-24

Jong Min Choi , Eunjin Lee | Issues in Mental Health Nursing

Gambling disorders may be associated with mental health issues, such as depressive disorders, as well as poor overall health and specific medical conditions. This study was a case-control study that … Gambling disorders may be associated with mental health issues, such as depressive disorders, as well as poor overall health and specific medical conditions. This study was a case-control study that compared a group with depressive symptoms (n = 33) to a group without depressive symptoms (n = 33), aiming to explore the relationship between factors associated with depressive symptoms. The group with depressive symptoms had shorter weekly exercise time and higher problem gambling severity and physical symptom scores than the group without depressive symptoms. Depressive symptoms were associated with increased levels of problem gambling severity and physical symptoms. In the group with depressive symptoms, a decrease in the severity of problem gambling was associated with an increase in problem drinking. Although serotonin levels did not differ between the two groups based on depressive symptoms, serotonin levels were correlated with changes in appetite in the depressive symptom group. The lower the serotonin levels in the group with depressive symptoms, the greater the tendency to borrow money or sell personal belongings to fund gambling activities. Problem gambling severity had a greater impact on depressive symptoms than on physical symptoms. The results showed that gambling severity and physical symptoms were related to depressive symptoms in individuals with gambling disorders.

The neural vulnerabilities in reward processing in gambling disorder

2025-06-23

Amy Jing-Wen Yin , Anise M. S. Wu , Anita Yingxin Xiong +7 more | Journal of Behavioral Addictions

Clinical diagnosis of gambling disorder (GD) remains challenging due to the heterogeneity in symptoms and a lack of consistency in the proposed neural mechanisms. Effective classification of GD may depend … Clinical diagnosis of gambling disorder (GD) remains challenging due to the heterogeneity in symptoms and a lack of consistency in the proposed neural mechanisms. Effective classification of GD may depend on neural representations of either risky decision-making or reward processing. To address these challenges, we recruited more than 100 individuals with GD and matched healthy controls, utilizing event-related fMRI during a novel risky decision-making task to elicit neural representations of risky decision-making and reward processing. During the decision phase, there was no significant difference observed between the two groups even when a very liberal threshold was used. During reward processing, the GD group exhibited significantly increased activation in the right inferior frontal gyrus, right anterior insula, and bilateral posterior cingulate cortex in the risky reward condition compared with the healthy controls. A notable neural activation characteristic was the distinct response between risk-win and risk-loss conditions in reward processing, particularly in the right inferior frontal gyrus in the GD group. The classification for GD using the neural representation of reward yielded an area under the curve of 0.75 (±0.11 SD). These findings integrate biological and behavioral perspectives to provide new insights into the reward processes underlying GD. These findings highlight specific neural representations associated with GD and suggest potential biomarkers for diagnostic evaluation in GD.

Betydningen av skam og åpenhet for å søke hjelp for pengespillproblematikk. En narrativ intervjustudie

2025-06-23

Dagny Adriaenssen Johannessen , Niri Talberg , Stian Overå | Tidsskrift for velferdsforskning

“Like a steak at a vegan village”: adaptability as a cornerstone in stable recovery from substance and/or gambling addiction

2025-06-23

Ayala Elbaz , Natti Ronel , Keren Gueta | Drugs Education Prevention and Policy

Pubs crawls and pub crawlers: A systematic literature review and consumer behaviour analysis

2025-06-21

Victoria K. Wells , Nadine Waehning , Kathryn E. Arnold | International Journal of Hospitality Management

Application of Stochastic Process to Lottery in Nigeria

2025-06-20

Odukoya Elijah Ayooluwa , Olayinka Korede. Peter , Ajewole Kehinde Peter +1 more | International Journal of Latest Technology in Engineering Management & Applied Science

Abstract: Lottery is one of the most popular forms of gambling which offers gamblers opportunity to win large cash prize for a relatively low cost. Research on lottery gambling could … Abstract: Lottery is one of the most popular forms of gambling which offers gamblers opportunity to win large cash prize for a relatively low cost. Research on lottery gambling could examine the effect of mediators in the relationships between independent variables and gambling behaviour. We consider the case of premier lotto and selected six (6) different players at random over a number of years. The methods used in these researches are Markov Chain and Stationarity of the state process. For every player in the system, we obtain the long run probability or likelihood of winning if every player continues playing indefinitely. We obtain the inter state transition probabilities indicating the transition of each player from one year to other.

Modernizing Multi-Site Casino IT: Architecture for Secure Data, Redundant Networks, and Automated Recovery

2025-06-20

Karthick Ramachandran | International Journal of Computer Applications

From House Money to Core Funds: Modeling Risk Attitudes in Consecutive Poker Hands

2025-06-20

Sriram Balasubramanian | Research Square (Research Square)

<title>Abstract</title> This paper develops a two-period behavioral model of poker bettingthat integrates mental accounting and prospect-theoretic reference depen-dence to explain how early wins or losses shape later risk-taking. In thefirst … <title>Abstract</title> This paper develops a two-period behavioral model of poker bettingthat integrates mental accounting and prospect-theoretic reference depen-dence to explain how early wins or losses shape later risk-taking. In thefirst period a player bets a portion of her initial wealth, obtaining either again (win) or a loss. We then treat any first-period gain as “house money”(a separate mental account) and the remainder of original wealth as corefunds. If the player lost, the reduced bankroll becomes the new core andno house money is available. In period two the player chooses a secondbet on the basis of these mental accounts. Our formal analysis showsthat if the player won initially, the presence of house money reduces effec-tive loss sensitivity and leads to a larger second-period bet (capturing thehouse-money effect). If the player lost initially, the shrinkage of core fundsand loss aversion leads to a smaller bet (consistent with risk-averse be-havior in the gain domain and potential loss-chasing behavior to recouplosses). We incorporate reference-dependent value [K˝oszegi and Rabin,2006] and prospect-theoretic preferences [Kahneman and Tversky, 1979]to characterize the break-even effect (risk-seeking after losses) alongsidethe house-money effect. Our model is motivated by experimental find-ings: experienced poker players tend to gamble more aggressively whenbehind (“break-even effect”) and more conservatively when ahead. Wealso consider tilting – emotionally-driven reckless play after losses – asan amplifying mechanism. The implications for understanding gamblingbehavior are discussed, as are limitations of the two-stage abstraction.

Crisis Intervention With Persons Affected by Gambling Disorder Using Motivational Interviewing

2025-06-19

Jessica L. Auslander | Oxford University Press eBooks

Abstract This chapter begins with exploring the definition of gambling and the multiple entry points to gambling, including playing cards, dice games, video lottery terminals, slot machines, bingo, Keno, state-sponsored … Abstract This chapter begins with exploring the definition of gambling and the multiple entry points to gambling, including playing cards, dice games, video lottery terminals, slot machines, bingo, Keno, state-sponsored lottery games, pull-tabs, animal betting (horse racing, dog racing, animal fighting, etc.), sports betting, and in-game gambling found in video games. It examines the diagnostic evolution of gambling disorders across the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. It discusses treatment of gambling disorders with a specific focus on motivational interviewing and harm reduction. The chapter provides a cross-walk of Roberts’s seven-stage crisis intervention model and motivational interviewing. It also provides three case examples applying both models to gambling disorder cases.

How many children have parents with gambling disorder – a Germany-based estimate

2025-06-19

Nina Stefan , Larissa Schwarzkopf , Sven Buth +2 more | BMC Public Health

Effects of Probabilistic Win-Paired-Cues on Loss Trials on Risky Choice in Rats

2025-06-19

Cyrille Lambert , Karen G. Anderson | Behavioural Processes

CADEIAS DE MARKOV APLICADO A RUÍNA DO JOGADOR COMO ARGUMENTO CONTRA APOSTAS

2025-06-19

Kauana Rodrigues da Silva , Hilquias Santos de Oliveira , Edem Assunção Baima Neto +1 more | INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL EDUCATION AND TEACHING (PDVL) ISSN 2595-2498

O presente artigo tem como objetivo investigar, usando como ferramenta argumentativa as cadeias de Markov, a probabilidade de ruína do jogador em jogos de azar, tomando como base o jogo … O presente artigo tem como objetivo investigar, usando como ferramenta argumentativa as cadeias de Markov, a probabilidade de ruína do jogador em jogos de azar, tomando como base o jogo “Fortune Tiger”. A análise parte do questionamento sobre a viabilidade de estratégias de apostas e propõe uma abordagem matemática, a fim de mostrar como as chances envolvidas levam o jogador à ruína, independente do estilo de aposta. Temos por base teórica o uso das cadeias de Markov, um modelo probabilístico que permite analisar processos estocásticos de forma a identificar a transição entre estados possíveis, como vitórias e derrotas consecutivas em um jogo. Neste caso, olhamos em especial para uma aplicação no problema adaptado da ruína do jogador, que é frequentemente discutido no campo da teoria dos jogos e probabilidade. A metodologia consiste em aplicar o problema da ruína com dados probabilísticos extraídos através de medições no jogo em questão, e comparar o resultado com simulações númericas feitas em python, usando como critério de análise a transição de estados no decorrer do jogo em duas situações diferentes, a saber, no caso em que a banca possui mais dinheiro que o apostador, e no caso em que apostador e banca possuem valores iguais. Os resultados confirmam a hipótese de que, independente do estilo ou estratégia de aposta, o jogador enfrenta uma probabilidade alta de ruína a medida que o números de jogadas aumenta. Tais resultados fortalecem o argumento contra a viabilidade dos jogos de aposta, destacando a inevitabilidade da perda, mesmo em cenários onde o jogador adota estratégias conservadoras.

Drivers of adolescent chasing behavior: The role of craving, decision-making, alcohol use, and gambling severity

2025-06-18

Marina Cosenza , Barbara Pizzini , Maria Ciccarelli +2 more | Addictive Behaviors

Stigmatisation of people experiencing gambling-related harms: a vignette study of the predictors of desire for social distance

2025-06-18

Joanne Lloyd , Katy L. Penfold , Darren Chadwick +3 more | Frontiers in Psychology

Introduction Stigma is associated with psychological distress and can act as a barrier to help-seeking for people who experience gambling harms. While research into intersectional stigma within this population is … Introduction Stigma is associated with psychological distress and can act as a barrier to help-seeking for people who experience gambling harms. While research into intersectional stigma within this population is scarce, this may be exacerbated for those from multiply-marginalised groups. Method This study used an online survey with ‘vignette’ design to capture attitudes of 3,567 adults in Great Britain towards hypothetical individuals experiencing gambling harms alongside a variety of other potentially stigmatised characteristics (minority ethnicity, LGBTQ status; low-income status; chronic drug/alcohol use; and mental health difficulties). Questions about participants’ own demographic characteristics, their contact with and experience of gambling/gambling harms, and their beliefs about the nature and origin of gambling harms were also administered. Results Significantly greater desire for social distance from protagonists experiencing gambling harms than those described as gambling recreationally ( p &lt; 0.05) indicated the presence of public stigma, and this was further elevated ( p &lt; 0.05) when the protagonist was described as having difficulties with drug and alcohol use. The other potentially stigmatised characteristics were not associated with an additional increase in stigma, and potential reasons for this are discussed. Perceived disruptiveness and harmfulness of the protagonist, along with beliefs that gambling harms are due to bad character and difficult to recover from, were all significant predictors of desire for social distance – as were lower levels of prior contact with gambling harms (all p &lt; 0.05). Discussion These findings have utility for stigma reduction interventions, and can also inform those working with people experiencing gambling harms.

The Effect of Gambling on Saving Behaviour in Australia

2025-06-17

Opoku Adabor | Journal of Gambling Studies

Cooperative decision-making in borderline personality disorder: insights from a preregistered study using a comprehensive economic task battery

2025-06-17

Lisa Marie Doppelhofer , Johanna Löloff , Corinne Neukel +2 more | Borderline Personality Disorder and Emotion Dysregulation

Causal effect of lottery promotions on post-win payments: Evidence from a large field experiment

2025-06-16

Kohsuke Kubota , Keiichi Ochiai , Takahiro Hoshino | Innovative Marketing

This study aims to investigate how different incentive sizes in multi-shot lottery promotions, including large and small prizes, influence subsequent consumer payments. Multi-shot lottery promotions allow repeated opportunities to win … This study aims to investigate how different incentive sizes in multi-shot lottery promotions, including large and small prizes, influence subsequent consumer payments. Multi-shot lottery promotions allow repeated opportunities to win incentives and are widely used across various industries. Understanding the relationship between the cost of implementing the promotions, such as incentives for winning, and subsequent consumer payments, which drive revenue, is essential for improving cost-effectiveness. This study analyzes large-scale field data from over one million mobile payment service users and employs a stratified randomized experiment method that addresses user-initiated transaction bias. The results show that, during the promotion, winning any prize increases the total transaction amount (by $26.97–$32.80), the number of transactions (by 1.17–1.27), and the average transaction amount (by $8.81–$9.38). Notably, a small prize with a 0.2% return rate yields a return on investment of 1078.8%, surpassing the 5.6% and 8.6% from larger prizes. However, after the promotion, these differences in incentive size have negligible effects on consumer payments. Further analysis, which also examined whether the effects of winning vary depending on users’ frequency of use, reveals that these effects are most pronounced among light users across all outcomes. The findings suggest that allocating multiple small prizes may be more cost-effective than focusing on a few large prizes, especially for lower-usage segments, and offer valuable insights for designing successful multi-shot lottery promotions.

Social exclusion and problem gambling in rural China: a network analysis

2025-06-16

R Lin , Yan Wei , Xiayun Yin +1 more | Current Psychology

Readdressing Addiction Stigma: Making Space for Being in the World Differently

2025-06-15

Fay Dennis | Bristol University Press eBooks

Online Sports Gambling and College Students: A Christian Response to a Growing Industry

2025-06-14

Kimberly M. Reeve , Jared Pincin | Christian Higher Education

Baccarat gamblers follow trends rather than adhere to the gambler's fallacy: Analyses of field data from a casino

2025-06-14

Hiroyuki Muto , Ryusuke Nakai , Toshiya Murai +2 more | Acta Psychologica

Impact of Spanish gambling regulations on online gambling behavior and marketing strategies

2025-06-13

Gema Aonso‐Diego , Ángel García‐Pérez , Andrea Krotter | Harm Reduction Journal

Too Aroused to Sleep: The Role of Tilt in Playing Online Poker and First-Person Shooter Games

2025-06-12

Béatrice Sasseville , Isabelle Giroux , François Olivier +4 more | Journal of Gambling Studies

Effects of Audiovisual Cues on Game Immersion during Simulated Slot Machine Gambling

2025-06-12

Fiza Arshad , Mario A. Ferrari , W. Spencer Murch +4 more | Journal of Gambling Studies

Psychometric validation and measurement invariance of the Brief Situational Confidence Questionnaire for Gambling (BSCQ-G) in a sample of adult gamblers from the general population.

2025-06-05

Ainhoa Coloma‐Carmona , José Luís Carballo , Nicki A. Dowling | Psychology of Addictive Behaviors

Despite the development of multiple gambling-related self-efficacy measures, their validation has often been conducted in convenience or clinical samples, limiting their generalizability to the broader gambling population. This gap is … Despite the development of multiple gambling-related self-efficacy measures, their validation has often been conducted in convenience or clinical samples, limiting their generalizability to the broader gambling population. This gap is particularly relevant given that most individuals with gambling problems do not seek treatment, highlighting the need for tools that can be applied in both clinical and nonclinical settings. This study aimed to validate the Brief Situational Confidence Questionnaire for Gambling (BSCQ-G), a 10-item adaptation of the Brief Situational Confidence Questionnaire, for assessing gambling-related self-efficacy. Data were drawn from a nationwide online survey of 1,429 Spanish adults (aged 18-64 years). Analyses were conducted on a subsample of 921 individuals who reported past-year gambling. The BSCQ-G demonstrated excellent reliability (α and ω = 0.98), and a unidimensional structure was confirmed via exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses. Measurement invariance was confirmed across age, sex, and gambling modality, indicating its applicability across diverse populations of gamblers. Importantly, its invariance across problem gambling severity levels measured by the Problem Gambling Severity Index (nonproblem: Problem Gambling Severity Index scores of 0-4 vs. problem gambling: Problem Gambling Severity Index scores of 5-27) reinforces its potential application in identifying and monitoring self-efficacy in individuals at varying levels of gambling risk. BSCQ-G scores ≥ 80% exhibited a sensitivity of 93.5% and specificity of 51.6% for identifying individuals with nonproblem gambling. Concurrent validity was supported through negative correlations with gambling frequency, expenditure, and problem gambling severity. The BSCQ-G is a brief, psychometrically robust tool for assessing self-efficacy in high-risk situations, offering utility in both research and clinical contexts. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved).

Behavioral and computational signatures of reinforcement learning and confidence biases in gambling disorder

2025-06-05

Monja Hoven , Maël Lebreton , Ruth J. van Holst | Journal of Behavioral Addictions

Abstract Background and aims Gambling Disorder (GD) is associated with maladaptive decision-making, possibly driven by biases in learning and confidence judgments. While prior research report abnormal learning rates and heightened … Abstract Background and aims Gambling Disorder (GD) is associated with maladaptive decision-making, possibly driven by biases in learning and confidence judgments. While prior research report abnormal learning rates and heightened overconfidence in GD, the affected cognitive mechanism producing these joint deficits has so far remained unidentified. Our study aims to fill this gap using a recently established reinforcement learning (RL) experimental and computational framework linking learning processes, outcome-valence effects and confidence judgments. Methods We pre-registered and tested the hypotheses that GD patients exhibit increased (over)confidence and confirmatory learning bias, and increased outcome valence effects on choice accuracy and confidence judgements in in 18 participants with GD and 19 matched controls. Results While our findings replicated the main behavioral patterns of choices and confidence judgments, and confirmed their computational foundations, we did not find any group differences between the controls and patients with GD. Discussion and Conclusions The current findings speak to the inconsistent findings of abnormalities in confidence and learning in GD. Systematic research is necessary to better understand the influence of possibly mediating factors such as disorder-related idiosyncrasies (e.g. skill- vs chance-based preferences) to further clarify if, when and how confidence and learning are affected in people with GD.