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Pathological gamblers are neither impulsive nor sensation-seekers
1Cumberland Hospital, North Parramatta N.S.W.
The Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry
|September 1, 1988
Summary
Pathological gamblers showed no significant differences in sensation seeking or impulsivity compared to controls. This challenges the classification of pathological gambling as an impulse control disorder.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Psychiatry
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Pathological gambling is often categorized with impulse control disorders.
- Understanding the psychological profiles of gamblers is crucial for effective treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare sensation seeking and impulsivity levels in pathological gamblers, alcoholics, heroin addicts, and non-patients.
- To investigate the validity of classifying pathological gambling as an impulse control disorder.
Main Methods:
- Utilized Zuckerman's Sensation Seeking Scale (SSS) and Barratt's Impulsivity Scale (BIS).
- Compared scores across four groups: pathological gamblers (10), alcoholics (10), heroin addicts (10), and non-patients (25).
Main Results:
- Pathological gamblers did not differ from non-patients on SSS or BIS.
- Drug addicts scored higher on SSS and BIS than other groups.
- Alcoholics scored lower on SSS than pathological gamblers and non-patients.
Conclusions:
- Pathological gambling may not fit the typical profile of an impulse control disorder.
- Reconsideration of the classification of pathological gambling is suggested based on these findings.
- Sensation seeking and impulsivity patterns differ significantly across addiction types.