Impulse and reason? Justifications in problem gambling
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View abstract on PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.Gamblers use justifications to rationalize their behavior, which are linked to problem gambling severity. This thinking style may not be separate from impulsivity, suggesting a new area for gambling research.
Area Of Science
- Psychology
- Behavioral Science
- Addiction Research
Background
- Justifications are commonly used to support choices in various behaviors.
- Limited understanding exists regarding justificatory thoughts specifically within gambling behavior.
Purpose Of The Study
- To investigate the presence and impact of justificatory thinking in individuals with gambling problems.
- To determine if justifications are associated with problem gambling severity, beyond impulsivity and cognitive distortions.
Main Methods
- Two online surveys were conducted with gamblers seeking to reduce their gambling (Study 1: n=101, Study 2: n=154).
- Justifications, previously identified in eating and consumer behavior, were assessed.
- Associations between justifications, problem gambling severity, trait impulsivity, and cognitive distortions were examined.
Main Results
- Justificatory thinking was positively associated with problem gambling severity in both studies, even after controlling for impulsivity and cognitive distortions.
- Justifications also correlated positively with trait urgency and cognitive distortions.
- These findings suggest justificatory thinking is not independent of impulsivity.
Conclusions
- Justificatory thinking is present in the context of gambling and is related to problem gambling severity.
- This cognitive process may be an overlooked factor in understanding gambling-related cognitions.
- Further research into gambling justifications could inform interventions.
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