A review of the relationship between problem gambling and gambling refusal self‑efficacy

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Author(s): Nagy, Natasa ; Urbán, Róbert ; Czakó, Andrea ; Demetrovics, Zsolt ; Horváth, Zsolt

Journal: International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction

Year Published: 2026

Date Added: August 29, 2026

One factor that may play a role in problem gambling (PG) is gambling refusal self-efficacy (GRSE). This term refers to a person’s confidence in being able to resist gambling. Lower GRSE has been linked to PG; however, it is still unclear if other factors influence the relationship between GRSE and PG.

The present study is a review and meta-analysis of existing research on the relationship between GRSE and PG. A total of 21 studies were included in the review. A significant negative relationship between GRSE and PG was found. In other words, people with lower GRES tend to have a lower risk for PG. The only factors that moderated the relationship between GRSE and PG were sample size and the GRSE measure used. These results can inform researchers and clinicians working with people experiencing PG.

Citation: Nagy, N., Urbán, R., Czakó, A., Demetrovics, Z., & Horváth, Z. (2026). The relationship between problem gambling and gambling refusal self-efficacy: A systematic review and meta-analysis. International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11469-026-01665-9

Article DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11469-026-01665-9

Keywords: behavioural addictions ; gambling disorder ; problem gambling ; self-efficacy

Conceptual Framework Factors: Psychological - Self-Perceptions ; Psychological Factors

Study Design: Systematic Review

Study Funding:

Open access funding was provided by Eötvös Loránd University. Zsolt Horváth received funding from the Ministry of Culture and Innovation of Hungary through the National Research, Development and Innovation Fund.