GRANT ET AL (2008) RESULTS, CONCLUSIONS

Question 1

How was the success of the treatment measured?

Answer 1

if ppts gambling symptoms decreased by at least 35% for at least a 1 month duration post-treatment.

The treatment was considered successful if the patient was able to sustain for 1 month postreatment- a 35% reduction in symptoms

Question 2

What was the main results of the study?

Answer 2

• Key predictor of a good response to opiate antagonists: People with a** family history of alcoholism** were the most likely to respond well to the treatment. (This suggests a possible genetic link between addiction and gambling)
• For thoes who had more intense gambling urges (and had to take higher doses) were** more likely to respond well to the treatment** (the medication seemed to work best for those with strong gambling cravings)

gambling addiction and substance addiction may share similar genetic and neurological pathway

Question 3

What did the results suggests in terms of age?

Answer 3

• Younger ppts (in the placebo group) responded better than older ppts (in the placebo group).
• Why? less ingrained gambling habits thus more suceptible to the influence of placebos.

Question 4

Conclusion?

Answer 4

A family history of alcoholism and strong gambling urges seem to be the strongest predictors of a positive response to treatment of PG. This suggests that gambling addiction and substance addiction may share similar genetic and neurological pathway (further research should be done)