treatments Flashcards
lecture slide
Psycho-social interventions which view
the individual as part of a system that
involves themselves other people and
social norms and attitudes.
* The social cure and or the social identity
approach to understanding addiction and
aiding recovery.
* Mutual sharing groups
* Social identity mapping
mutual sharing groups-
gambling groups=Mutual sharing groups, such as Gamblers Anonymous (GA) and other peer support programs, play a crucial role in gambling disorder treatment by fostering a sense of social connection and accountability. These groups are based on the principles of shared experiences, emotional support, and collective problem-solving, which can be highly effective in promoting recovery.
How Mutual Sharing Groups Help Treat Gambling Disorder
Social Support & Belonging
Mutual sharing groups create a sense of community among individuals struggling with gambling problems. Research has shown that social support is a key predictor of recovery, as individuals who feel a sense of belonging are more likely to maintain abstinence from gambling (Carter et al., 2023).
Normalization of Struggles & Reduction of Shame
By participating in group discussions, individuals realize they are not alone in their experiences, which helps reduce the stigma and self-blame associated with gambling addiction (Tarras et al., 2021).
Cognitive Restructuring & Perspective Shift
Hearing others’ stories can help participants reframe their own experiences, recognize destructive thought patterns, and develop healthier coping mechanisms (Ferland et al., 2020). This aligns with cognitive-behavioral principles often integrated into gambling treatment.
Accountability & Motivation
Regular meetings encourage members to stay accountable for their actions. The structured format of mutual help groups, including 12-step programs, promotes self-reflection and goal-setting (Stea & Hodgins, 2011).
Reduction in Gambling Urges
Engaging in mutual sharing groups has been associated with reduced gambling urges and relapse rates. This is likely due to both the emotional support provided and the practical strategies shared among members (Toneatto & Millar, 2019).
though more effective alongside CBT
social identity mapping
Social identity mapping (SIM) is a therapeutic approach that examines an individual’s group affiliations and the significance of these connections in shaping their behavior and self-concept. In the context of gambling disorder treatment, SIM is utilized to help individuals recognize how their social identities influence their gambling behaviors and recovery processes.
Research indicates that strong identification with offline peer groups can serve as a protective factor against problem gambling among youth, whereas strong identification with online peer groups may increase the risk of developing gambling problems (Savolainen et al., 2019). This suggests that the nature of one’s social connections plays a crucial role in either mitigating or exacerbating gambling behaviors.
Furthermore, studies have highlighted the importance of social support and a sense of belonging in recovery from gambling addiction. For instance, participation in mutual help groups, such as Gamblers Anonymous, has been associated with reduced gambling urges, primarily due to the sense of belonging these groups provide (Carter et al., 2023). This underscores the significance of fostering positive social identities in the recovery process.
CBT
CBT for gambling disorder often targets irrational cognitions, such as overestimating winning odds or believing one can predict outcomes. Studies show CBT is effective in both individual and group settings.
For instance, Ladouceur et al. (2001, 2003) found significant gambling reductions in CBT-treated individuals compared to a wait-list control. However, expectancy effects and wait-list control designs limit long-term efficacy assessmen
motivational enhancement
Motivational Interviewing (MI) and Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET) are brief interventions initially developed for substance use disorders. These approaches appear effective for gambling reduction, particularly when combined with CBT. Hodgins et al. (2001, 2009) found that MI combined with a CBT workbook reduced gambling compared to control conditions, though additional booster sessions did not enhance outcomes.
Grant et al. (2009) and Oei et al. (2010) found that MI combined with CBT, whether delivered individually or in groups, significantly improved gambling outcomes. Petry et al. (2008, 2009) further demonstrated that MI alone could sustain gambling reductions over time, though intervention effectiveness varied by population—college students benefited more from motivational approaches, while low-income adults responded better to direct, brief advice.
review
Petry et al 2021- review of 21 randomised trial studies= found cognitive behavioural therapy was effective, but little is known about its long term efficacy-
also found motivational interviewing was not effective alone but effective alongside cognitive therapies
