Development of a meta-cognitive training program for people with gambling problems

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Author(s): Gehlenborg, Josefine ; Bücker, Lara ; Berthold, Mira ; Miegel, Franziska ; Moritz, Steffen

Journal: Journal of Gambling Studies

Year Published: 2021

Date Added: December 24, 2020

The aim of this study was to pilot test a meta-cognitive training program (Gambling-MCT) for people with gambling problems. Gambling-MCT aims to help people recognize and change their thinking that can contribute to their false beliefs about gambling and depression. Participants were 25 adults with gambling problems. The results showed that participants reduced their false beliefs and improved their gambling problems after the program. Most participants were satisfied with the program. Overall, Gambling-MCT appeared to be feasible, safe, and acceptable. The findings will inform a clinical trial to assess the program’s short- and long-term impacts.

Citation: Gehlenborg, J., Bücker, L., Berthold, M., Miegel, F., & Moritz, S. (2021). Feasibility, acceptance, and safety of metacognitive training for problem and pathological gamblers (Gambling‑MCT): A pilot study. Journal of Gambling Studies, 37(2), 663-687. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10899-020-09975-w

Article DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10899-020-09975-w

Keywords: cognitive distortions ; gambling ; metacognition ; safety ; treatment

Topics: Gambling Cognitions ; Information for Treatment Providers ; Venue and Community

Conceptual Framework Factors: Psychological - Personality and Temperament ; Psychological Factors ; Psychological - Judgement and Decision Making ; Gambling Resources ; Resources - Interventions

Response Rate: N/A; completion rate from baseline to post-assessment = 72%

Study Design: Experimental: NRCT (non-randomized controlled trial)

Geographic Coverage: Germany, Hamburg

Study Population: Adults who were between the ages of 18 and 70 and felt that they had gambling problems (no formal diagnosis needed; N = 25). Participants must not have lifetime diagnoses of schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, or the presence of acute suicidal tendencies, assessed at baseline.

Sampling Procedure: Participants were recruited in an outpatient institution and a counseling center for addiction from June 2018 to December 2019. In addition, flyers about the study were displayed in more than 80 gambling halls as well as counseling centers. A Google® AdWords campaign was also initiated. Most participants were recruited through the two treatment facilities, and a few through the campaign.

Study Funding:

Open Access funding provided by Projekt DEAL. This study was not funded by external sources.