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Group therapy for pathological gamblers: a cognitive approach.
R Ladouceur1, C Sylvain, C Boutin
1Ecole de Psychologie, Université Laval, Quebec, G1K 7P4, Ste-Foy, Canada. robert.ladouceur@psy.ulaval.ca
Behaviour Research and Therapy
|April 25, 2003
Summary
Group cognitive treatment significantly reduced pathological gambling. 88% of treated gamblers no longer met diagnostic criteria, showing sustained improvement in gambling disorder symptoms and control.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Behavioral Science
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Pathological gambling is a significant mental health concern.
- Erroneous perceptions about randomness contribute to gambling behavior.
- Effective treatments for pathological gambling are needed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of a group cognitive treatment for pathological gambling.
- To assess the impact of cognitive correction on gamblers' perceptions and behaviors.
- To examine the long-term maintenance of therapeutic gains.
Main Methods:
- Randomized controlled trial comparing treatment (N=34) to a wait-list control (N=24).
- Intervention focused on cognitive correction of erroneous perceptions about randomness and relapse prevention.
- Outcome measures included DSM-IV criteria for pathological gambling, self-efficacy, perceived control, desire to gamble, and gambling frequency.
Main Results:
- 88% of treated gamblers no longer met DSM-IV criteria for pathological gambling post-treatment, versus 20% in the control group.
- Significant improvements were observed across all outcome measures, including perceived self-efficacy and control.
- Therapeutic gains were maintained at 6-, 12-, and 24-month follow-ups.
Conclusions:
- Group cognitive treatment is an effective intervention for pathological gambling.
- Cognitive correction of erroneous perceptions regarding randomness is a key therapeutic component.
- The treatment demonstrates sustained efficacy and potential for widespread group intervention.