UPPS-P Impulsivity, Momentary Affect, and Gambling: An Experience Sampling Method Study

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Behavioral Science
• Addiction Research

Background:

• Impulsivity is a key factor in gambling behavior.
• The UPPS-P impulsivity model includes traits like urgency, premeditation, perseverance, and sensation seeking.
• Understanding the interplay between impulsivity, affect, and gambling is crucial for intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between UPPS-P impulsivity traits and momentary affect on daily gambling behaviors.
• To examine how different facets of impulsivity influence gambling frequency, duration, and expenditure.
• To explore potential interactions between trait impulsivity and affective states in predicting gambling outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A sample of 99 regular gamblers completed baseline UPPS-P assessments.
• Participants provided daily reports on affect and gambling behavior for seven days.
• Bayesian mixed-effects models were employed to analyze trait and state influences on gambling.

Main Results:

• A significant positive association was found between Lack of Premeditation and time spent gambling.
• Most other UPPS-P traits and momentary affect variables showed non-significant associations with gambling behaviors.
• No significant cross-level interactions were detected between impulsivity traits, affect, and gambling severity.

Conclusions:

• Lack of Premeditation is a robust predictor of increased gambling duration.
• Impulsivity is a multidimensional construct with differential impacts on various gambling behaviors.
• The study underscores the utility of Bayesian methods for quantifying uncertainty in behavioral research.