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Comorbidity of impulse control disorders in pathological gamblers
1Department of Psychiatry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55454-1495, USA. grant045@umn.edu
Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica
|August 2, 2003
Summary
Impulse control disorders are common in pathological gamblers, with nearly a quarter experiencing them. Comorbidities are linked to more severe gambling urges, thoughts, and distress, indicating a significant relationship.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Behavioral Science
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Pathological gambling is a significant public health concern.
- Impulse control disorders (ICDs) are frequently observed in individuals with addictive behaviors.
- Understanding the comorbidity of ICDs in pathological gambling is crucial for effective treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of impulse control disorders in a sample of pathological gamblers.
- To explore the association between comorbid impulse control disorders and the severity of gambling symptoms.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 96 adult pathological gamblers was assessed.
- Participants completed standardized interviews and questionnaires, including the Minnesota Impulsive Disorders Interview and the Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale Modified for Pathological Gambling.
Main Results:
- Approximately 22.9% of pathological gamblers reported a comorbid impulse control disorder, with compulsive sexual behavior and compulsive buying being most frequent.
- Individuals with comorbid ICDs exhibited significantly higher intensity of gambling-related urges and thoughts.
- Comorbidity was associated with greater interference and distress stemming from gambling urges and thoughts.
Conclusions:
- Impulse control disorders are prevalent among individuals with pathological gambling.
- The presence of comorbid impulse control disorders is associated with increased severity of gambling symptoms, including urges, thoughts, distress, and interference.