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Vigna-Taglianti FD, Martorana M, Viola E, Renna M, Vadrucci S, Sciutto A, Andrà C, Mehanović E, Ginechesi M, Vullo C, Ceccano A, Casella P, Faggiano F. Evaluation of Effectiveness of the Unplugged Program on Gambling Behaviours among Adolescents: Study Protocol of the Experimental Controlled Study "GAPUnplugged". JOURNAL OF PREVENTION (2022) 2024; 45:405-429. [PMID: 38416313 DOI: 10.1007/s10935-024-00772-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
Gambling risk behaviour is an emerging problem among adolescents. "Unplugged" is an effective Social Influence curriculum for preventing substance use among students. This study aims to develop and test a new component focused on gambling added to the Unplugged program. Schools of Piedmont region and Rome city were invited to participate in the study. A self-completed anonymous questionnaire including questions on socio-demographic characteristics, addictive behaviours, beliefs, attitudes and risk perceptions about gambling, normative perceptions, parental practices, school climate, refusal skills, impulsiveness, self-esteem, antisocial behaviours and sensation seeking was prepared for baseline and follow-up surveys. The protocol of the study was submitted and approved by the Novara Ethical Committee and registered in ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05630157, Protocol ID: 080.742, 11/17/2022). Twenty-nine schools accepted to participate in the study. Sixty-three classes (1325 students) satisfied the eligibility criteria for intervention and were allocated to the intervention arm, and the other 61 (1269 students) were allocated to the control arm. Because of drop-out, absentees, refusals, and invalid questionnaires, data on 1874 students (998 in the intervention and 876 in the control arm), were available for the analysis at baseline. Data management of follow-up questionnaires is in progress. Results of the present study will be useful to clarify the effectiveness of prevention interventions in reducing gambling behaviours among adolescents. Moreover, this will be the first experience of evaluating a new component focused on a different risk behaviour, added to a curriculum previously shown as effective on other risk behaviours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica D Vigna-Taglianti
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Eastern Piedmont, via Solaroli 17, 28100, Novara, Italy.
| | - Marco Martorana
- Epidemiology Unit, ASL Vercelli, Vercelli, Italy
- Department of Sustainable Development and Ecological Transition, University of Eastern Piedmont, Vercelli, Italy
- Department of Statistics, Computer Science, and Applications "Giuseppe Parenti" (DiSIA), University of Florence, Firenze, Italy
| | - Erica Viola
- Department of Sustainable Development and Ecological Transition, University of Eastern Piedmont, Vercelli, Italy
| | - Mariaelisa Renna
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Eastern Piedmont, via Solaroli 17, 28100, Novara, Italy
| | - Serena Vadrucci
- Department of Prevention, Hygiene and Public Health Unit, ASL Città di Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Alberto Sciutto
- Department of Sustainable Development and Ecological Transition, University of Eastern Piedmont, Vercelli, Italy
| | - Chiara Andrà
- Department of Sustainable Development and Ecological Transition, University of Eastern Piedmont, Vercelli, Italy
| | - Emina Mehanović
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Eastern Piedmont, via Solaroli 17, 28100, Novara, Italy
| | - Maria Ginechesi
- Department of Mental Health, Addiction Unit, ASL Roma1, Roma, Italy
| | - Claudia Vullo
- Department of Mental Health, Addiction Unit, ASL Roma1, Roma, Italy
| | - Adalgisa Ceccano
- Department of Mental Health, Addiction Unit, ASL Roma1, Roma, Italy
| | - Pietro Casella
- Department of Mental Health, Addiction Unit, ASL Roma1, Roma, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Faggiano
- Epidemiology Unit, ASL Vercelli, Vercelli, Italy
- Department of Sustainable Development and Ecological Transition, University of Eastern Piedmont, Vercelli, Italy
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2
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Yang Z, Deal BE, Carcioppolo N, Zhao Y, Sewall AM. A Content Analysis of Problematic Gambling Prevention Interventions in the United States. J Gambl Stud 2024; 40:51-64. [PMID: 37402118 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-023-10237-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023]
Abstract
Gambling revenue in the United States is at all-time highs while recent and forthcoming legislation relaxes constraints on casino gaming, sports betting, and fantasy sports betting. Increased gambling will result in increased problematic gambling, highlighting the need to study the impact of our problematic gambling prevention interventions. To address this, we conducted a content analysis of problematic gambling prevention messages in the U.S. Results reveal that although there is overlap between theoretically-based messaging appeals recommended by research and those used in actual prevention interventions, health behavior theory is inconsistently applied and there are numerous examples of potential backfire effects. Results are discussed in terms of their impact on theory development and their noteworthy practical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zixiao Yang
- School of Communication, University of Miami, 5100 Brunson Drive, Coral Gables, FL, 33146, USA.
| | - Bonnie E Deal
- School of Communication, University of Miami, 5100 Brunson Drive, Coral Gables, FL, 33146, USA
| | - Nick Carcioppolo
- School of Communication, University of Miami, 5100 Brunson Drive, Coral Gables, FL, 33146, USA
| | - Yuan Zhao
- School of Communication, University of Miami, 5100 Brunson Drive, Coral Gables, FL, 33146, USA
| | - Ashley Marie Sewall
- School of Communication, University of Miami, 5100 Brunson Drive, Coral Gables, FL, 33146, USA
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3
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Monreal-Bartolomé A, Barceló-Soler A, García-Campayo J, Bartolomé-Moreno C, Cortés-Montávez P, Acon E, Huertes M, Lacasa V, Crespo S, Lloret-Irles D, Sordo L, Clotas Bote C, Puigcorbé S, López-Del-Hoyo Y. Preventive Gambling Programs for Adolescents and Young Adults: A Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:4691. [PMID: 36981602 PMCID: PMC10048743 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20064691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2023] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Gambling disorder in youth is an emerging public health problem, with adolescents and young adults constituting a vulnerable age group for the development of gambling-related problems. Although research has been conducted on the risk factors for gambling disorder, very few rigorous studies can be found on the efficacy of preventive interventions in young people. The aim of this study was to provide best practice recommendations for the prevention of disordered gambling in adolescents and young adults. We reviewed and synthesized the results of existing RCTs and quasi-experimental studies covering nonpharmacological prevention programs for gambling disorder in young adults and adolescents. We applied the PRISMA 2020 statement and guidelines to identify 1483 studies, of which 32 were included in the systematic review. All studies targeted the educational setting, i.e., high school and university students. Most studies followed a universal prevention strategy, that particularly targeted adolescents, and an indicated prevention strategy for university students. The reviewed gambling prevention programs generally showed good results in terms of reducing the frequency and severity of gambling, and also regarding cognitive variables, such as misconceptions, fallacies, knowledge, and attitudes towards gambling. Finally, we highlight the need to develop more comprehensive prevention programs that incorporate rigorous methodological and assessment procedures before they are widely implemented and disseminated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia Monreal-Bartolomé
- Institute of Health Research of Aragon (IIS Aragón), Miguel Servet University Hospital, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
- Chronicity, Primary Care, and Health Promotion Research Network (RICAPPS), 50015 Zaragoza, Spain
- Department of Psychology and Sociology, University of Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Alberto Barceló-Soler
- Institute of Health Research of Aragon (IIS Aragón), Miguel Servet University Hospital, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
- Healthcare Research Institute of Navarre (IdiSNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Javier García-Campayo
- Institute of Health Research of Aragon (IIS Aragón), Miguel Servet University Hospital, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
- Chronicity, Primary Care, and Health Promotion Research Network (RICAPPS), 50015 Zaragoza, Spain
- Department of Psychiatry, Hospital Miguel Servet, University of Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Cruz Bartolomé-Moreno
- Primary Care Teaching Unit for Zaragoza Healthcare District 1, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Paula Cortés-Montávez
- Department of Psychology and Sociology, University of Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Esther Acon
- Department of Psychology and Sociology, University of Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - María Huertes
- Department of Psychology and Sociology, University of Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Víctor Lacasa
- Department of Psychology and Sociology, University of Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Sofía Crespo
- Department of Psychology and Sociology, University of Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Daniel Lloret-Irles
- Department of Health Psychology, Miguel Hernández University, 03202 Elche, Spain
| | - Luis Sordo
- Department of Public Health and Maternal and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
- CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | - Yolanda López-Del-Hoyo
- Institute of Health Research of Aragon (IIS Aragón), Miguel Servet University Hospital, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
- Chronicity, Primary Care, and Health Promotion Research Network (RICAPPS), 50015 Zaragoza, Spain
- Department of Psychology and Sociology, University of Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
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4
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Augner C, Vlasak T, Aichhorn W, Barth A. Psychological online interventions for problem gambling and gambling disorder - A meta-analytic approach. J Psychiatr Res 2022; 151:86-94. [PMID: 35472684 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2022.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The Covid-19 pandemic has reignited discussions about the prevalence of and treatment options for problem gambling and gambling disorder (PGGD). Since affected persons seldom seek professional help, online interventions can improve accessibility. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of psychological online interventions on PGGD. METHODS We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis and searched in PubMed, PsycINFO, and Google Scholar for peer-reviewed experimental and quasi-experimental research published between 2010 and 2021. We calculated two meta-anlyses, one for treatment control comparisons (TCC), and one for pre-post-comparisons (PCC). RESULTS We included six studies (ten TCC and n = 2076) in meta-analysis 1 and five studies (six PCC and n = 781) in meta-analysis 2. Online interventions turned out to be effective in both analyses with Hedges g = 0.41, 95% confidence interval = [0.22 to 0.60], p < .001, for meta-anaylsis 1 and Hegdes g = 1.28, 95% confidence interval = [0.85 to 1.71], p < .001, for meta-analysis 2. CONCLUSIONS We identified significant effects of online interventions on PGGD in both analyses, indicating the potential of online applications. We discuss methodological aspects and further research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoph Augner
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy & Psychosomatics, Christian-Doppler Medical Centre, University Clinics of the Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria; Institute for Human Resources Research in Health Care, University Clinics of the Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria.
| | - Thomas Vlasak
- Institute for Psychology, Sigmund Freud University Linz, Austria
| | - Wolfgang Aichhorn
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy & Psychosomatics, Christian-Doppler Medical Centre, University Clinics of the Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Alfred Barth
- Institute for Psychology, Sigmund Freud University Linz, Austria
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5
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Systematic Review: Preventive Intervention to Curb the Youth Online Gambling Problem. SUSTAINABILITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/su14116402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
This systematic review focuses on all the gambling addiction prevention programs carried out in schools, with the intention of making their effectiveness known and encouraging the creation of more such programs. During the third quarter of 2021, an exhaustive search was conducted using the databases of Scopus, Medline (via Pubmed), WOS, and PsycINFO. The search strategy was based on a combination of specific search terms: “Gambling Disorder [Mesh]”, “Online Gambling Disorder [Mesh]”, and “Prevention Programs [Mesh]”. A total of 15 articles were chosen for systematic review. All the programs analyzed show effective results, although there are several methodological shortcomings in the way they are conducted. Effective programs need to focus more on long-term results and the emotional aspects of gambling. We need professionals who can convey the causal nature of the problem the youth are facing.
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6
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Palomäki J, Heiskanen M, Castrén S. Online 8-week cognitive therapy for problem gamblers: The moderating effects of depression symptoms and perceived financial control. J Behav Addict 2022; 11:75-87. [PMID: 35133289 PMCID: PMC9109628 DOI: 10.1556/2006.2021.00091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Online interventions for problem gambling are increasingly popular, but not everyone benefits from them. We describe 12 years of real-world data from an online intervention for gambling problems and aim to find out the extent to which depression, alcohol use, and sense of financial control influence the effectiveness of the program. METHODS We analyzed treatment effectiveness and moderators in the Finnish "Peli Poikki" program (2007-2018)-an 8-week cognitive behavioral therapy and follow-up program for problem gambling. Participants were Finnish-speaking adults over 18 years of age (N = 2011, 66.9% males). We measured the self-reported level of problem gambling, depression, alcohol use, and sense of financial control across four treatment phases (baseline, post-treatment, 6-month follow-up, and 12-month follow-up), as well as the presence of gambling debt, psychological and physiological health, years suffered from gambling problems, and demographic variables. RESULTS Participation grew across years with retention rates of 55%, 30%, and 19% for post-treatment and the two follow-ups, respectively. The average problem gambling scores declined significantly following treatment and remained low throughout the follow-ups. However, this decline (the beneficial treatment effect) was reversed after the follow-ups for those with high depression scores and those who felt they had no control over their finances. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS The Peli Poikki program is a well-functioning online intervention but less effective in the long term for participants with persisting symptoms of depression or without a sense of financial control. More attention is needed to screen and direct people with comorbidities to the appropriate services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jussi Palomäki
- Gambling Clinic (Peliklinikka), Helsinki University Hospital, Siltasaarenkatu 12 A, 00530Helsinki, Finland
| | - Maria Heiskanen
- Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Health and Well-Being Promotion Unit, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Sari Castrén
- Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Health and Well-Being Promotion Unit, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Psychology and Speech-Language Pathology, Social Sciences, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Department of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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7
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St Quinton T, Morris B, Pickering D, Smith DM. Behavior Change Techniques and Delivery Modes in Interventions Targeting Adolescent Gambling: A Systematic Review. J Gambl Stud 2022; 38:1503-1528. [PMID: 35239076 PMCID: PMC8891739 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-022-10108-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Revised: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adolescent gambling can lead to significant harms, yet participation rates continue to rise. Interventions targeting gambling reduction have been implemented in this population. However, it is not clear which behavior change techniques (BCTs) and modes of delivery (MOD) are most effective at reducing gambling. OBJECTIVE The objective of the study was to identify 'promising' BCTs and MODs by systematically reviewing interventions targeting adolescent gambling behavior. 'Promising' was defined as those present in at least 25% of all interventions and in at least two effective interventions. METHODS Three databases were searched (PsycINFO, Medline, and Scopus) from database inception to May 2021. Interventions were eligible if they were randomized controlled trials; targeting adolescents (aged 10-25 years); and assessing gambling behavior post-intervention. BCTs were identified using the Behavior Change Technique Taxonomy v1. RESULTS From the initial 3,315 studies, the removal of duplicates and ineligible articles resulted in sixteen studies included in the review. Eleven of these reported successfully reducing gambling behavior. Eighteen BCTs and six MODs were used across the interventions. The BCTs identified as promising were '4.2. Information about antecedents', '4.4. Behavioral experiments', '5.3. Information about social and environmental consequences', and '5.6. Information about emotional consequences'. Promising MODs were 'face-to-face', 'computer', and 'playable electronic storage'. CONCLUSIONS The study reviewed the content of interventions targeting adolescent gambling behavior. Four BCTs were identified as promising and should therefore be adopted in future interventions. To facilitate the delivery of these techniques, the study also identified three promising MODs. Interventions developed using these BCTs and MODs may successfully reduce adolescent gambling behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom St Quinton
- School of Social and Health Sciences, Leeds Trinity University, Brownberrie Lane, LS18 5HD, Leeds, UK.
| | - Ben Morris
- School of Social and Health Sciences, Leeds Trinity University, Brownberrie Lane, LS18 5HD, Leeds, UK
| | - Dylan Pickering
- Gambling Treatment and Research Clinic, School of Psychology, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Debbie M Smith
- Manchester Centre for Health Psychology, School of Health Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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8
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Rodda SN. A Systematic Review of Internet Delivered Interventions for Gambling: Prevention, Harm Reduction and Early Intervention. J Gambl Stud 2021; 38:967-991. [PMID: 34515903 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-021-10070-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Internet delivered interventions are accessible and easy to access and can be used to deliver brief interventions. These interventions can be tailored according to individual need for the prevention and minimisation of gambling harm or early intervention for those that are displaying some signs of problems. The objective of this review was to summarise the existing literature on the effectiveness of prevention, harm reduction and early intervention programs when delivered online. A systematic review was conducted for peer-reviewed studies that evaluated internet delivered interventions for the prevention, harm reduction or early intervention for gambling problems. Four electronic databases were consulted in the past 20 years (2000-2020) resulting in a total of 15 included studies. Across identified studies just one study provided prevention with 7 harm reduction and 7 early interventions. The quality of the literature was variable with just 8 randomised controlled trials with the remainder matched controls or longitudinal cohort studies. The target group was predominantly gamblers accessing betting and casino websites (n = 8). Studies administered four types of interventions which included personalised and normative feedback, limit setting, self-directed cognitive and behavioural therapy and self-exclusion. These were delivered via customer gaming accounts, email, and self-learning packages. The available literature shows promise in the effectiveness of internet delivered interventions. However, the limited number of studies included in this review highlight significant lost opportunities to leverage technology in the prevention and reduction of gambling harm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone N Rodda
- School of Population Health, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, 1142, New Zealand.
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9
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Ludens: A Gambling Addiction Prevention Program Based on the Principles of Ethical Gambling. J Gambl Stud 2021; 38:993-1008. [PMID: 34424447 PMCID: PMC8381860 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-021-10066-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Gambling is legal in most countries. However, despite having some economic benefits, certain characteristics of gambling can have health consequences, rendering it a public health issue. The effects can be summarized according to the following three "laws" of ethical gambling: "Gambling Dynamics Law": companies' economic gains come directly from players' losses; "Expected Loss Law": the more one gambles, the greater the probability of losing; and "Addiction Law": the more one gambles, the greater the need to play again, leading to further losses. Ludens is a gambling addiction prevention program that has four goals: inform participants about gambling and gambling addiction; sensitize participants to the risk of gambling for health, especially addiction; promote a change in attitudes toward gambling; and alert participants to risky behaviors that can lead to addiction. The prevention program was implemented during 2017 to 2019. Fourteen psychologists presented it to 2372 adolescents (48.8% females, 51.2% males) aged 14-19 years, none of whom were university students, recruited from 42 Spanish high schools in 132 groups taking different courses. The main dependent variables analyzed were the monthly frequencies of gambling, at-risk gambling, and gambling addiction (as measured by the National Opinion Research Center DSM-IV Screen for Gambling Problems, adapted to diagnose gambling disorder according to DSM-5, in which pathological gambling is considered an addictive disorder). Given that all of the gamblers were adolescents (most were minors), fulfilment of 1-3 the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria was considered to indicate a risk of problem gambling. After the administration of Ludens, statistically significant reductions were observed in the three variables of interest: monthly frequency of gambling, percentage of adolescents with risky gambling, and percentage of adolescents with gambling disorder. The results were analyzed according to sex and age (minors vs. adolescents between 18 and 19 years old). The results obtained after applying the prevention program indicate that Ludens is effective as a universal prevention program for gambling addiction.
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10
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Humphreys G, Evans R, Makin H, Cooke R, Jones A. Identification of Behavior Change Techniques From Successful Web-Based Interventions Targeting Alcohol Consumption, Binge Eating, and Gambling: Systematic Review. J Med Internet Res 2021; 23:e22694. [PMID: 33560243 PMCID: PMC7902193 DOI: 10.2196/22694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Web-based interventions are thought to overcome barriers to treatment, such as accessibility and geographical location, which can undermine the effectiveness of traditional face-to-face interventions. Owing to these features, researchers are increasingly testing the efficacy of web-based interventions as ways to reduce alcohol misuse, binge eating, and gambling. However, many web-based interventions have poorly defined mechanisms of action; therefore, it is often uncertain how they propose to bring about behavior change. OBJECTIVE This systematic review aims to identify effective behavior change techniques (BCTs) present in web-based interventions aimed at reducing alcohol consumption, binge eating, or gambling. METHODS This systematic review covered research conducted in the last 20 years. Inclusion criteria for interventions were web-based administration; targeting alcohol use, binge eating, and/or gambling; and reporting on baseline and postintervention measures of behavior. The PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses) guidelines were followed. We coded intervention effectiveness, study quality, and BCTs present in the interventions. RESULTS Following removal of 4152 ineligible articles, 45 were included in the review: 32 (71%) targeted alcohol misuse, 6 (13%) targeted binge eating, and 7 (16%) targeted gambling. In total, 5 frequency counts were performed to identify the most commonly used BCTs: all studies, effective interventions, high-quality studies at 2 thresholds, and both high quality and effective studies. The results obtained from this were integrated to identify 7 BCTs. These 7 BCTs were problem solving, feedback on behavior, self-monitoring of behavior, self-monitoring of outcomes, instruction on how to perform a behavior, information about social and health consequences, and social comparison. A total of 4 BCTs were found in all frequency counts: feedback on behavior, self-monitoring of behavior, instruction on how to perform a behavior, and social comparison. Self-monitoring of outcomes of behavior was found in 3 of the 5 frequency counts, problem solving was found in 2 frequency counts, and information about social and health consequences was found in 1 frequency count. CONCLUSIONS This systematic review identified 7 of the most frequently used BCTs used in web-based interventions focused on alcohol misuse, binge eating, and gambling. These results can inform the development of evidence-based eHealth interventions that have the potential to lead to effective, positive behavior changes in all 3 areas.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rebecca Evans
- School of Psychology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Harriet Makin
- School of Psychology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Richard Cooke
- School of Psychology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew Jones
- School of Psychology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
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11
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Tani F, Ponti L, Ghinassi S, Smorti M. A gambling primary prevention program for students through teacher training: an evidence-based study. INTERNATIONAL GAMBLING STUDIES 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/14459795.2020.1861056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Franca Tani
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Lucia Ponti
- Department of Education, Languages, Intercultures, Literatures and Psychology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Simon Ghinassi
- Department of Education, Languages, Intercultures, Literatures and Psychology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Martina Smorti
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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12
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Tani F, Ponti L, Ghinassi S. Sensation Seeking and Gambling Behavior in Adolescence: Can Externalizing Problems Moderate This Relationship? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17238986. [PMID: 33276645 PMCID: PMC7731405 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17238986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Gambling is a widespread phenomenon during adolescence. Among different risk factors involved in the onset of adolescent gambling behaviors, one factor that is studied is the sensation seeking personality trait. However, the literature is heterogeneous and a direct relationship between sensation seeking and gaming behaviors has not always been highlighted. This suggests that the relationship can be influenced by other factors. In particular, we explored the moderating role of externalizing problems in this relationship. A total of 363 adolescents (232 males and 131 females) aged 14 to 20 (M = 16.35, SD = 1.36) completed a battery of questionnaires aimed to assess their gambling behaviors, as well as the levels of externalizing problems and sensation seeking. The results showed that sensation seeking was associated with gambling severity, but this relationship was significant when externalizing problems were high and medium. On the contrary, when externalizing problems were low, the relationship between sensation seeking and gambling severity was not significant. Overall, sensation seeking in adolescence can favor the implementation of risk behaviors, such as gambling, but only in association with the presence of externalizing problems. Limitations, strengths, and social and clinical implications of the present study are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franca Tani
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy;
| | - Lucia Ponti
- Department of Education, Languages, Intercultures, Literatures and Psychology, University of Florence, 50121 Florence, Italy;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-055-2755000
| | - Simon Ghinassi
- Department of Education, Languages, Intercultures, Literatures and Psychology, University of Florence, 50121 Florence, Italy;
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13
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Calado F, Alexandre J, Rosenfeld L, Pereira R, Griffiths MD. The Efficacy of a Gambling Prevention Program Among High-School Students. J Gambl Stud 2020; 36:573-595. [PMID: 31712967 PMCID: PMC7214490 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-019-09908-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Youth problem gambling has become an emergent public health issue, and adolescents constitute a vulnerable age group for the development of gambling-related problems. Although there is research concerning the risk factors of youth problem gambling, rigorous evaluations of the effectiveness of preventive initiatives is still rare. The present study evaluated the efficacy of an integrative intervention to prevent youth problem gambling based on a multidimensional set of factors including gambling-related knowledge, misconceptions, attitudes, gambling frequency, amount of money spent, total hours spent gambling per week, and sensation seeking. A pre- and post-test design was performed with 111 Portuguese high-school students randomly assigned to two groups (experimental and control). The findings demonstrated that the intervention was effective in improving correct knowledge about gambling, reducing misconceptions and attitudes, and in decreasing the total hours spent gambling per week. The intervention was also effective in reducing the number of at-risk/problem gamblers during the study period. Furthermore, these findings were stable after a 6-week follow-up. Overall, the intervention program appeared to be effective in correcting some gambling-related behaviours, and provides suggestions for future interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filipa Calado
- Department of Psychology, Nottingham Trent University, 50 Shakespeare Street, Nottingham, NG1 4FQ, UK.
| | - Joana Alexandre
- Department of Psychology, ISCTE - CIS/IUL - Lisbon University Institute, Avenida das Forças Armadas, 1649-026, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Liah Rosenfeld
- Department of Psychology, ISCTE - CIS/IUL - Lisbon University Institute, Avenida das Forças Armadas, 1649-026, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Rafaela Pereira
- Department of Psychology, ISCTE - CIS/IUL - Lisbon University Institute, Avenida das Forças Armadas, 1649-026, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Mark D Griffiths
- Department of Psychology, Nottingham Trent University, 50 Shakespeare Street, Nottingham, NG1 4FQ, UK
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14
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Nilsson A, Magnusson K, Carlbring P, Andersson G, Hellner C. Behavioral couples therapy versus cognitive behavioral therapy for problem gambling: a randomized controlled trial. Addiction 2020; 115:1330-1342. [PMID: 31746075 PMCID: PMC7317433 DOI: 10.1111/add.14900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Revised: 10/08/2019] [Accepted: 10/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
AbstractBackground and aimsThere is evidence that cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is effective for treating problem gambling (PG). Some research points to the possible benefits of involving concerned significant others (CSOs) in treatment. This study compared the efficacy of behavioral couples therapy (BCT) and CBT for both the gambler and the CSO.DesignTwo parallel‐group randomized controlled study comparing two different internet‐based treatments for PG. Follow‐up measures were conducted at treatment finish, and at 3‐, 6‐ and 12‐month post‐treatment.SettingStockholm, Sweden.ParticipantsA total of 136 problem gamblers and 136 CSOs were included in the study: 68 gamblers and 68 CSOs for each treatment condition. The gamblers were on average 35.6 years old and 18.4% were female. CSOs were on average 45.3 years old and 75.7% were women.InterventionsA treatment based on BCT was compared with a CBT intervention. Both treatments were internet‐based, with 10 therapist‐guided self‐help modules accompanied by weekly telephone and e‐mail support from a therapist. CSOs were given treatment in the BCT condition, but not in the CBT condition.MeasurementsThe primary outcome measures were time‐line follow‐back for gambling (TLFB‐G) and the NORC Diagnostic Screen for Gambling Problems (NODS) for problem gamblers, corresponding to DSM‐IV criteria for pathological gambling. Secondary outcomes measures were the Patient Health Questionnaire‐9 (PHQ‐9), the Generalized Anxiety Disorder seven‐item scale (GAD‐7), the Relation Assessment Scale Generic (RAS‐G), the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT), the Inventory of Consequences of Gambling for the Gambler and CSO (ICS) and adherence to treatment for both the problem gambler and the CSO.FindingsThe outcomes of both gambler groups improved, and differences between the groups were not statistically significant: TLFB‐G: multiplicative effect = 1.13, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.30;4.31); NODS: multiplicative effect = 0.80, 95%, 95% CI = 0.24;2.36. BCT gamblers began treatment to a higher proportion than CBT gamblers: P = 0.002.ConclusionsDifferences in the efficacy of internet‐based behavioral couples therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy for treatment of problem gambling were not significant, but more gamblers commenced treatment in the behavioral couples therapy group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anders Nilsson
- Department of Clinical NeuroscienceStockholm Center for Psychiatry Research and Education, Karolinska InstitutetStockholmSweden
| | - Kristoffer Magnusson
- Department of Clinical NeuroscienceStockholm Center for Psychiatry Research and Education, Karolinska InstitutetStockholmSweden
| | - Per Carlbring
- Department of PsychologyStockholm UniversityStockholmSweden
| | - Gerhard Andersson
- Department of Clinical NeuroscienceStockholm Center for Psychiatry Research and Education, Karolinska InstitutetStockholmSweden
- Department of Behavioral Sciences and LearningLinköping UniversityLinköpingSweden
| | - Clara Hellner
- Department of Clinical NeuroscienceStockholm Center for Psychiatry Research and Education, Karolinska InstitutetStockholmSweden
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15
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Paterson M, Whitty M, Boyer C. An overview of digital and online strategies to reduce gambling harm. Health Promot J Austr 2020; 32:248-257. [PMID: 32246884 DOI: 10.1002/hpja.341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2019] [Revised: 02/18/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
ISSUE ADDRESSED Advancements in mobile- and web-based technologies proliferate everyday opportunities to gamble. The increased availability, popularity and intensity of online gambling platforms and interactive gaming activities also changes the way we construct gambling harm reduction interventions. Information and communication technologies (ICT) provide potential opportunities to reduce harm from online gambling through harm minimisation initiatives and currently available services. The aim of this review was to firstly understand the scope of peer-reviewed evidence on ICT-based strategies to reduce online gambling harm, and secondly, what evidence exists specifically in relation to ICT-based harm reduction initiatives for people who gamble online. METHODS Scoping review methods and a five-stage model of analysis were used to: identify the published literature on ICT-based harm minimisation activities for online gambling; distil models appropriate to address gambling harm in this setting; and synthesise all available evidence, noting gaps and patterns. RESULTS Sixteen gambling-specific ICT-based interventions were reviewed in depth. The majority of included studies focused on different components of computer-assisted or online therapy programs for disordered gambling, specifically the development of individual skills in managing problematic gambling behaviour. CONCLUSIONS The review found that despite the widespread potential ICT represent for addressing gambling harm there has been only limited published research to date. SO WHAT There is a clear need for further investigation into uptake, usage, focus and effectiveness of all online gambling interventions on offer. The dearth of gambling-specific empirical knowledge potentially indicates a serious resourcing and reporting issues in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marisa Paterson
- Centre for Gambling Research, ANU Centre for Social Research and Methods, Research School of Social Sciences, ANU College of Arts and Social Sciences, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Megan Whitty
- Centre for Gambling Research, ANU Centre for Social Research and Methods, Research School of Social Sciences, ANU College of Arts and Social Sciences, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Charlotte Boyer
- Centre for Gambling Research, ANU Centre for Social Research and Methods, Research School of Social Sciences, ANU College of Arts and Social Sciences, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
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16
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Sirola A, Kaakinen M, Savolainen I, Oksanen A. Loneliness and online gambling-community participation of young social media users. COMPUTERS IN HUMAN BEHAVIOR 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2019.01.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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17
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van der Maas M, Shi J, Elton-Marshall T, Hodgins DC, Sanchez S, Lobo DS, Hagopian S, Turner NE. Internet-Based Interventions for Problem Gambling: Scoping Review. JMIR Ment Health 2019; 6:e65. [PMID: 30617046 PMCID: PMC6329421 DOI: 10.2196/mental.9419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2017] [Revised: 07/31/2018] [Accepted: 10/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study seeks to give an overview of academic research on internet-based interventions that are used to address problem gambling. The rate of treatment seeking has been demonstrated to be low across several research environments. This is in part because of the systemic barriers that treatment seekers face to accessing traditional face-to-face treatment. Making treatment resources for problem gambling available through the internet is one way to reduce the impact of those systemic barriers. The use of internet-based resources to address problem gambling has been growing, and a field of research evaluating it has developed as well. However, little has been done to summarize this collection of research. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to provide a scoping review of the use of internet-based interventions for problem gambling treatment and prevention to provide an understanding of the current state of the field. METHODS A scoping review was performed for 6 peer-reviewed research databases (Web of Science, PsycINFO, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, MEDLINE, Social Science Abstracts, and Scopus) and 3 gray literature databases (MedEdPortal, Proquest: Dissertations, and OpenGrey). Article inclusion criteria were as follows: published over the 10-year period of 2007 to 2017, including an intervention for problem gambling, and involving the use of internet to deliver that intervention. RESULTS A total of 27 articles were found that met the review criteria. Studies were found from several different areas, with particularly strong representation for Australia, New Zealand, and Scandinavia. Cognitive behavioral therapy was the most common form of internet-based intervention. Internet-based interventions were generally shown to be effective in reducing problem gambling scores and gambling behaviors. A wide range of interventions that made use of internet resources included text-based interactions with counselors and peers, automated personalized and normative feedback on gambling behaviors, and interactive cognitive behavioral therapies. A lack of diversity in samples, little comparison with face-to-face interventions, and issues of changes in the treatment dynamic are identified as areas that require further investigation. CONCLUSIONS Internet-based interventions are a promising direction for treatment and prevention of problem gambling, particularly in reducing barriers to accessing professional help. The state of the current literature is sparse, and more research is needed for directly comparing internet-based interventions and their traditional counterparts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark van der Maas
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jing Shi
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Tara Elton-Marshall
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, London, ON, Canada.,School of Public Health and Health Systems, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - David C Hodgins
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Calgary, ON, Canada
| | - Sherald Sanchez
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Daniela Ss Lobo
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Sylvia Hagopian
- Problem Gambling Institute of Ontario, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Nigel E Turner
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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18
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Khazaal Y, Chatton A, Achab S, Monney G, Thorens G, Dufour M, Zullino D, Rothen S. Internet Gamblers Differ on Social Variables: A Latent Class Analysis. J Gambl Stud 2018; 33:881-897. [PMID: 28028687 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-016-9664-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Online gambling has gained popularity in the last decade, leading to an important shift in how consumers engage in gambling and in the factors related to problem gambling and prevention. Indebtedness and loneliness have previously been associated with problem gambling. The current study aimed to characterize online gamblers in relation to indebtedness, loneliness, and several in-game social behaviors. The data set was obtained from 584 Internet gamblers recruited online through gambling websites and forums. Of these gamblers, 372 participants completed all study assessments and were included in the analyses. Questionnaires included those on sociodemographics and social variables (indebtedness, loneliness, in-game social behaviors), as well as the Gambling Motives Questionnaire, Gambling Related Cognitions Scale, Internet Addiction Test, Problem Gambling Severity Index, Short Depression-Happiness Scale, and UPPS-P Impulsive Behavior Scale. Social variables were explored with a latent class model. The clusters obtained were compared for psychological measures and three clusters were found: lonely indebted gamblers (cluster 1: 6.5%), not lonely not indebted gamblers (cluster 2: 75.4%), and not lonely indebted gamblers (cluster 3: 18%). Participants in clusters 1 and 3 (particularly in cluster 1) were at higher risk of problem gambling than were those in cluster 2. The three groups differed on most assessed variables, including the Problem Gambling Severity Index, the Short Depression-Happiness Scale, and the UPPS-P subscales (except the sensation seeking subscore). Results highlight significant between-group differences, suggesting that Internet gamblers are not a homogeneous group. Specific intervention strategies could be implemented for groups at risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasser Khazaal
- Geneva University Hospitals, Grand Pré 70C, Geneva, 1206, Switzerland.
- Faculty of Medicine, Geneva University, Geneva, Switzerland.
- Research Center, Montreal University Institute of Mental Health, Montreal, Canada.
| | - Anne Chatton
- Geneva University Hospitals, Grand Pré 70C, Geneva, 1206, Switzerland
| | - Sophia Achab
- Geneva University Hospitals, Grand Pré 70C, Geneva, 1206, Switzerland
| | - Gregoire Monney
- Geneva University Hospitals, Grand Pré 70C, Geneva, 1206, Switzerland
| | - Gabriel Thorens
- Geneva University Hospitals, Grand Pré 70C, Geneva, 1206, Switzerland
- Faculty of Medicine, Geneva University, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Daniele Zullino
- Geneva University Hospitals, Grand Pré 70C, Geneva, 1206, Switzerland
- Faculty of Medicine, Geneva University, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Stephane Rothen
- Geneva University Hospitals, Grand Pré 70C, Geneva, 1206, Switzerland
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19
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Marino C, Mazzieri E, Caselli G, Vieno A, Spada MM. Motives to use Facebook and problematic Facebook use in adolescents. J Behav Addict 2018; 7:276-283. [PMID: 29846087 PMCID: PMC6174593 DOI: 10.1556/2006.7.2018.32] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and aims There is a growing body of evidence suggesting that problematic Facebook use (PFU) is an emerging problem, particularly among adolescents. Although a number of motivations explaining why people engage in frequent Facebook use have been identified, less is known about the specific psychological needs underlying PFU. The aim of this study is to test a model designed to assess the unique contribution of psychological motives for using Facebook to the different PFU dimensions in a sample of adolescents. Methods A total of 864 Italian adolescents participated in the study. Multivariate multiple regression was run to test whether the four motives were differently associated with problematic dimensions. Results The results showed that the two motives with negative valence (coping and conformity) were significantly linked to the five dimensions of PFU, whereas the two motives with positive valence (enhancement and social) appeared to be weaker predictors for three out of these five dimensions. Discussion and conclusion In conclusion, psychological motives for using Facebook appeared to significantly contribute to explaining PFU among adolescents, and should be considered by researchers and educational practitioners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Marino
- Dipartimento di Psicologia dello Sviluppo e della Socializzazione, Università degli Studi di Padova, Padova, Italy,Division of Psychology, School of Applied Sciences, London South Bank University, London, UK,Corresponding author: Claudia Marino; Dipartimento di Psicologia dello Sviluppo e della Socializzazione, Università degli Studi di Padova, via Venezia 8, Padova 35121, Italy; Phone: +39 049 827 6402; Fax: +39 049 827 6547; E-mail:
| | | | - Gabriele Caselli
- Division of Psychology, School of Applied Sciences, London South Bank University, London, UK,Studi Cognitivi, Milano, Italy,Department of Psychology, Sigmund Freud University, Milano, Italy
| | - Alessio Vieno
- Dipartimento di Psicologia dello Sviluppo e della Socializzazione, Università degli Studi di Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Marcantonio M. Spada
- Division of Psychology, School of Applied Sciences, London South Bank University, London, UK
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20
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Nilsson A, Magnusson K, Carlbring P, Andersson G, Gumpert CH. The Development of an Internet-Based Treatment for Problem Gamblers and Concerned Significant Others: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial. J Gambl Stud 2018; 34:539-559. [PMID: 28699054 PMCID: PMC5938305 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-017-9704-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Problem gambling creates significant harm for the gambler and for concerned significant others (CSOs). While several studies have investigated the effects of individual cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for problem gambling, less is known about the effects of involving CSOs in treatment. Behavioral couples therapy (BCT) has shown promising results when working with substance use disorders by involving both the user and a CSO. This pilot study investigated BCT for problem gambling, as well as the feasibility of performing a larger scale randomized controlled trial. 36 participants, 18 gamblers and 18 CSOs, were randomized to either BCT or individual CBT for the gambler. Both interventions were Internet-delivered self-help interventions with therapist support. Both groups of gamblers improved on all outcome measures, but there were no differences between the groups. The CSOs in the BCT group lowered their scores on anxiety and depression more than the CSOs of those randomized to the individual CBT group did. The implications of the results and the feasibility of the trial are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anders Nilsson
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Stockholm Center for Psychiatry Research and Education, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Kristoffer Magnusson
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Stockholm Center for Psychiatry Research and Education, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Per Carlbring
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Gerhard Andersson
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Stockholm Center for Psychiatry Research and Education, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Behavioral Sciences and Learning, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Clara Hellner Gumpert
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Stockholm Center for Psychiatry Research and Education, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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21
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Estévez A, Rodríguez R, Díaz N, Granero R, Mestre-Bach G, Steward T, Fernández-Aranda F, Aymamí N, Gómez-Peña M, del Pino-Gutiérrez A, Baño M, Moragas L, Mallorquí-Bagué N, López-González H, Jauregui P, Onaindia J, Martín-Romera V, Menchón JM, Jiménez-Murcia S. How do online sports gambling disorder patients compare with land-based patients? J Behav Addict 2017; 6:639-647. [PMID: 29076354 PMCID: PMC6034943 DOI: 10.1556/2006.6.2017.067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2017] [Revised: 09/01/2017] [Accepted: 10/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and aims Recent technological developments have brought about notable changes in the way people gamble. The widespread use of mobile Internet devices and gambling websites has led to a significant leap in the number of people who recreationally gamble. However, for some, gambling can turn into a psychiatric disorder resembling substance addiction. At present, there is a shortage of studies examining differences between adults with gambling disorder (GD) who exclusively make sports bets online, GD patients that are non-sports Internet gamblers, and offline gamblers. Therefore, this study was undertaken to determine the differences between these three groups, considering sociodemographic, personality, and clinical characteristics. Methods The sample consisted of 2,743 treatment-seeking male patients from the Pathological Gambling Unit at a university hospital. All patients met DSM-5 criteria for GD. Results We found that gamblers who exclusively engaged in non-sports Internet gambling activities were younger than offline gamblers and online sports gamblers. Non-sports Internet gamblers were also more likely to have greater levels of debt compared with offline gamblers. In terms of personality characteristics, our sample displayed low levels of self-directedness and cooperativeness and high levels of novelty seeking. In addition, online sports gamblers obtained higher scores in persistence than non-sports Internet gamblers and offline gamblers. Discussion and conclusion Although differences if terms of gambling severity were not identified between groups, GD patients who exclusively bet online appear to possess distinct personality characteristics and higher debt levels compared with offline gamblers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Estévez
- Department of Personality, Psychological Assessment and Treatment of the University of Deusto, Bilbao, Spain
| | - Raquel Rodríguez
- Department of Personality, Psychological Assessment and Treatment of the University of Deusto, Bilbao, Spain
| | - Noelia Díaz
- Department of Personality, Psychological Assessment and Treatment of the University of Deusto, Bilbao, Spain
| | - Roser Granero
- Ciber Fisiopatología Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERObn), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Departament de Psicobiologia i Metodologia de les Ciències de la Salut, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gemma Mestre-Bach
- Ciber Fisiopatología Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERObn), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Pathological Gambling Unit, Department of Psychiatry, Bellvitge University Hospital – IDIBELL, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Trevor Steward
- Ciber Fisiopatología Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERObn), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Pathological Gambling Unit, Department of Psychiatry, Bellvitge University Hospital – IDIBELL, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Fernando Fernández-Aranda
- Ciber Fisiopatología Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERObn), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Pathological Gambling Unit, Department of Psychiatry, Bellvitge University Hospital – IDIBELL, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Neus Aymamí
- Pathological Gambling Unit, Department of Psychiatry, Bellvitge University Hospital – IDIBELL, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mónica Gómez-Peña
- Pathological Gambling Unit, Department of Psychiatry, Bellvitge University Hospital – IDIBELL, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Amparo del Pino-Gutiérrez
- Nursing Department of Mental Health, Public Health, Maternal and Child Health, Nursing School, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marta Baño
- Pathological Gambling Unit, Department of Psychiatry, Bellvitge University Hospital – IDIBELL, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laura Moragas
- Pathological Gambling Unit, Department of Psychiatry, Bellvitge University Hospital – IDIBELL, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Núria Mallorquí-Bagué
- Ciber Fisiopatología Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERObn), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Pathological Gambling Unit, Department of Psychiatry, Bellvitge University Hospital – IDIBELL, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Hibai López-González
- Department of Personality, Psychological Assessment and Treatment of the University of Deusto, Bilbao, Spain
- International Gaming Research Unit, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK
| | - Paula Jauregui
- Department of Personality, Psychological Assessment and Treatment of the University of Deusto, Bilbao, Spain
| | - Jaione Onaindia
- Department of Personality, Psychological Assessment and Treatment of the University of Deusto, Bilbao, Spain
| | | | - José M. Menchón
- Pathological Gambling Unit, Department of Psychiatry, Bellvitge University Hospital – IDIBELL, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Ciber de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Susana Jiménez-Murcia
- Ciber Fisiopatología Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERObn), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Pathological Gambling Unit, Department of Psychiatry, Bellvitge University Hospital – IDIBELL, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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22
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Cavalera C, Bastiani L, Gusmeroli P, Fiocchi A, Pagnini F, Molinari E, Castelnuovo G, Molinaro S. Italian Adult Gambling Behavior: At Risk and Problem Gambler Profiles. J Gambl Stud 2017; 34:647-657. [PMID: 29134497 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-017-9729-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The present study examined adult gambling behaviours from a local perspective in order to assess the adult at risk and problem gambler's profile stratified by genre and by different forms of game. 4773 Italian adults from 18 to 94 years old were administered a survey to assess socio-cultural information related to gambling behaviour and the SOGS to evaluate gambling behaviour severity. Logistic regression evidenced that both at risk and problem gamblers are associated with male gender, players that use to play to more than one game, gambling with strategy-based games. People with a gambler father or both parents who used to gamble were significantly more associated with problem gambling behaviour than participants with non-gambler parents. These results present adult profiles of at risk and problem providing a more clear understanding about the relationships between gambling behavior severity and type of gambling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cesare Cavalera
- Department of Psychology, Catholic University of Milan, Via Nirone 15, 20123, Milan, Italy.
| | - Luca Bastiani
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, National Council of Research, Via Moruzzi 1, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - Pamela Gusmeroli
- Atipica Cooperativa Sociale Onlus, Via Zappa 10, 20045, Besana in Brianza, Monza e Brianza, Italy
| | - Adelmo Fiocchi
- Atipica Cooperativa Sociale Onlus, Via Zappa 10, 20045, Besana in Brianza, Monza e Brianza, Italy
| | - Francesco Pagnini
- Department of Psychology, Catholic University of Milan, Via Nirone 15, 20123, Milan, Italy
| | - Enrico Molinari
- Department of Psychology, Catholic University of Milan, Via Nirone 15, 20123, Milan, Italy.,Psychology Research Laboratory, Ospedale San Giuseppe, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Via Cadorna, 90, 28824, Località Piancavallo, Oggebbio, Verbania, Italy
| | - Gianluca Castelnuovo
- Department of Psychology, Catholic University of Milan, Via Nirone 15, 20123, Milan, Italy.,Psychology Research Laboratory, Ospedale San Giuseppe, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Via Cadorna, 90, 28824, Località Piancavallo, Oggebbio, Verbania, Italy
| | - Sabrina Molinaro
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, National Council of Research, Via Moruzzi 1, 56124, Pisa, Italy
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23
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Canale N, Rubaltelli E, Vieno A, Pittarello A, Billieux J. Impulsivity influences betting under stress in laboratory gambling. Sci Rep 2017; 7:10668. [PMID: 28878376 PMCID: PMC5587697 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-10745-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2017] [Accepted: 08/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Although recent research suggests that acute stress influences subsequent decision-making under ambiguity, less is known about the role of personality variables in this relationship. This study tested whether impulsivity traits and acute stress differentially influence the way in which a prior feedback is incorporated into further decisions involving ambiguity. Sixty college students (50% male; aged 18-25 years) were randomly assigned to a stress versus a non-stress condition before completing a laboratory gambling task. The results revealed that independently of the stress condition, subjects behaved as if the odds of winning increase after a single loss. Additionally, stress effects varied as a function of impulsivity traits. Individuals who lacked perseverance (i.e., had difficulty focusing on a difficult or boring task) gambled more after experiencing a loss in the stress condition than did those in the control condition. The present study supports that impulsivity traits can explain the differential effect of stress on the relationship between prior feedback and choices made under ambiguity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natale Canale
- Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.
| | - Enrico Rubaltelli
- Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Alessio Vieno
- Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | | | - Joël Billieux
- Addictive and Compulsive Behaviour Lab (ACB-Lab). Institute for Health and Behaviour, Integrative Research Unit on Social and Individual Development (INSIDE), University of Luxembourg, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg.,Addiction Division, Department of Mental Health and Psychiatry, University Hospitals of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
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Keen B, Blaszczynski A, Anjoul F. Systematic Review of Empirically Evaluated School-Based Gambling Education Programs. J Gambl Stud 2017; 33:301-325. [PMID: 27566689 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-016-9641-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Adolescent problem gambling prevalence rates are reportedly five times higher than in the adult population. Several school-based gambling education programs have been developed in an attempt to reduce problem gambling among adolescents; however few have been empirically evaluated. The aim of this review was to report the outcome of studies empirically evaluating gambling education programs across international jurisdictions. A systematic review following guidelines outlined in the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) Statement searching five academic databases: PubMed, Scopus, Medline, PsycINFO, and ERIC, was conducted. A total of 20 papers and 19 studies were included after screening and exclusion criteria were applied. All studies reported intervention effects on cognitive outcomes such as knowledge, perceptions, and beliefs. Only nine of the studies attempted to measure intervention effects on behavioural outcomes, and only five of those reported significant changes in gambling behaviour. Of these five, methodological inadequacies were commonly found including brief follow-up periods, lack of control comparison in post hoc analyses, and inconsistencies and misclassifications in the measurement of gambling behaviour, including problem gambling. Based on this review, recommendations are offered for the future development and evaluation of school-based gambling education programs relating to both methodological and content design and delivery considerations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brittany Keen
- Responsible Gambling Research Group, Brain and Mind Centre, Sydney University, 94 Mallett St, Camperdown, NSW, 2050, Australia.
| | - Alex Blaszczynski
- Responsible Gambling Research Group, Brain and Mind Centre, Sydney University, 94 Mallett St, Camperdown, NSW, 2050, Australia
| | - Fadi Anjoul
- Responsible Gambling Research Group, Brain and Mind Centre, Sydney University, 94 Mallett St, Camperdown, NSW, 2050, Australia
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Personality, motives and metacognitions as predictors of problematic Facebook Use in university students. PERSONALITY AND INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.paid.2016.05.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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26
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Latest Developments in Treatment for Disordered Gambling: Review and Critical Evaluation of Outcome Studies. CURRENT ADDICTION REPORTS 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s40429-016-0110-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Impact of Internet gambling on problem gambling among adolescents in Italy: Findings from a large-scale nationally representative survey. COMPUTERS IN HUMAN BEHAVIOR 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2015.12.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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