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Impulsiveness, locus of control, motivation and problem gambling
1School of Psychology, Massey University, Albany Campus, North Shore Mail Centre, Private Bag 102 904, New Zealand. d.clarke@massey.ac.nz
Journal of Gambling Studies
|December 4, 2004
Summary
Problem gambling in university students is linked to impulsiveness and specific motivations, not locus of control. Understanding gambling motivation is key for effective treatment strategies.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Problem gambling is a significant issue among young adults.
- Previous research has explored various psychological factors, including locus of control and impulsiveness, in relation to gambling behavior.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the differences between problem and non-problem gamblers in a university student sample.
- To examine the role of gambling motivation and locus of control in predicting problem gambling.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire assessing demographics, gambling behavior, South Oaks Gambling Screen (SOGS), depression, impulsiveness, locus of control, and gambling motivation was administered to 147 New Zealand university students.
- Multivariate analysis of variance and hierarchical regression analysis were employed.
Main Results:
- Problem gamblers differed significantly from non-problem gamblers in gambling frequency, number of activities, parental gambling, depression, impulsiveness, and motivation.
- Gambling motivation, particularly amotivation and motivation for stimulation/accomplishment/tension release, and impulsiveness were significant predictors of problem gambling.
- Locus of control was not a significant predictor of problem gambling in this sample.
Conclusions:
- Gambling motivation is a more pertinent construct than locus of control in understanding and explaining problem gambling among university students.
- Findings suggest that treatment programs should consider motivational factors and impulsivity.