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GamblingLess: In-The-Moment: a mixed-methods acceptability and engagement evaluation of a gambling just-in-time
N A Dowling1, S S Merkouris2, C J Greenwood2
1School of Psychology, Deakin University, Burwood, Australia. nicki.dowling@deakin.edu.au.
Addiction Science & Clinical Practice
|October 15, 2025
Summary
The GamblingLess mobile app, a Just-In-Time Adaptive Intervention (JITAI), effectively supports gambling reduction. High user acceptance and perceived effectiveness were observed, highlighting potential for JITAI optimization.
Area of Science:
- Digital Health
- Behavioral Science
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Mobile health interventions, specifically Just-In-Time Adaptive Interventions (JITAIs), offer accessible gambling treatment.
- GamblingLess: In-The-Moment is an app-based JITAI designed to reduce gambling severity.
- The intervention uses ecological momentary assessments (EMAs) to deliver tailored support.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the acceptability and engagement of the GamblingLess JITAI.
- To assess user experience and identify areas for intervention optimization.
Main Methods:
- A 28-day micro-randomised trial (MRT) with a six-month follow-up.
- Mixed-methods evaluation including app usage data, acceptability surveys, and semi-structured interviews.
- 192 participants (66% male, median age 35) were included in the MRT.
Main Results:
- The JITAI demonstrated high user engagement, with participants completing an average of nine intervention activities.
- Acceptability scores exceeded standards, though users preferred a hybrid approach with less frequent EMAs and longer program duration.
- Qualitative interviews revealed themes of facilitated gambling reduction and promotion of behavior change.
Conclusions:
- GamblingLess: In-The-Moment is a highly accepted and effective tool for supporting gambling behavior reduction.
- Iterative development is crucial for JITAI optimization, focusing on enhancing user engagement and mitigating fatigue.
