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Retaining pathological gamblers in cognitive behavior therapy through motivational enhancement: A pilot study
Edelgard Wulfert1, Edward B Blanchard, Brian M Freidenberg
1Department of Psychology, University at Albany, State University of New York, USA.
Behavior Modification
|April 1, 2006
Summary
This study shows that combining motivational enhancement and cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) significantly improves treatment retention for pathological gambling. Most participants achieved abstinence or improvement after 12 months.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Behavioral Science
- Addiction Studies
Background:
- Pathological gambling treatment has high attrition and relapse rates.
- Commitment to change varies among individuals seeking treatment for gambling disorder.
- Existing interventions show promise but require optimization for sustained recovery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the efficacy of a hybrid intervention for severe pathological gamblers.
- To assess treatment retention and outcomes using motivational enhancement and cognitive behavior therapy (CBT).
- To compare retention rates with standard treatment approaches.
Main Methods:
- An exploratory study involving 9 severe pathological gamblers, primarily horse race bettors.
- Treatment combined motivational enhancement therapy with cognitive behavior therapy (CBT).
- A 12-month follow-up period was implemented to assess outcomes and retention.
Main Results:
- All participants in the hybrid intervention group were retained in treatment throughout the 12-month follow-up.
- Retention rates were significantly higher compared to a control group receiving treatment as usual.
- 6 out of 9 participants achieved total abstinence, 2 showed significant improvement, and 1 remained unimproved.
Conclusions:
- Combining motivational enhancement with cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) appears effective in improving treatment retention for pathological gambling.
- This hybrid approach may facilitate sustained behavioral change and lifestyle improvements.
- Further research is warranted to validate these findings in larger cohorts.
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