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Pathological gambling in hospitalized substance abusing veterans
A N Daghestani1, E Elenz, J W Crayton
1Department of Psychiatry, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, IL 60153, USA.
The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry
|August 1, 1996
Summary
Pathological gambling frequently co-occurs with substance abuse in patients. Family history of gambling and larger family size are linked to this comorbidity, highlighting the need for integrated treatment.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Addiction Medicine
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Previous research suggests a link between pathological gambling and substance abuse.
- This study investigates the co-occurrence and associated psychosocial and diagnostic factors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the comorbidity of pathological gambling and substance abuse.
- To identify psychosocial and diagnostic variables associated with this comorbidity.
Main Methods:
- Administered the South Oaks Gambling Screen to 276 patients.
- Conducted semistructured interviews with 134 subjects using a comprehensive psychiatric questionnaire.
- Utilized statistical analysis including t tests and ANOVA.
Main Results:
- 33% of patients (92 of 276) had comorbid pathological gambling.
- Comorbidity was associated with a family history of gambling and larger family size (p = .001).
- Pathological gambling patients showed significantly higher current alcohol consumption (p = .007).
Conclusions:
- Comorbidity of substance abuse and pathological gambling is prevalent in VA hospital patients.
- Integrated treatment addressing both conditions is recommended for substance abuse programs.
- Identifying pathological gambling in substance abuse patients is crucial for effective intervention.