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Gamblers anonymous and cognitive-behavioral therapies for pathological gamblers
1Department of Psychiatry, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, 263 Farmington Avenue, Farmington, CT 06030-3944, USA. petry@psychiatry.uchc.edu
Journal of Gambling Studies
|March 25, 2005
Summary
This study examines treatments for pathological gambling, comparing Gamblers Anonymous (GA) and cognitive-behavioral therapy. Evidence suggests combining these approaches may improve engagement and reduce relapse.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Psychology
- Clinical Psychology
- Addiction Psychiatry
Background:
- Pathological gambling is a significant mental health concern.
- Established treatments include Gamblers Anonymous (GA) and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT).
- Limited data exists on the comparative effectiveness of these interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review outcome data for Gamblers Anonymous (GA) and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) in treating pathological gambling.
- To explore the potential benefits of combining GA and CBT.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of outcome data for GA and CBT.
- Analysis of evidence supporting combined interventions for gambling disorder.
Main Results:
- Both Gamblers Anonymous (GA) and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) show varying degrees of effectiveness.
- Preliminary evidence indicates that a combined approach may enhance patient engagement.
- Combined interventions show promise in reducing relapse rates for pathological gambling.
Conclusions:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and Gamblers Anonymous (GA) are common treatments for pathological gambling.
- Combining CBT and GA may offer superior outcomes in engagement and relapse prevention.
- Further research is warranted to confirm the efficacy of combined interventions.