Evaluating a real-time intervention delivered through smartphone for managing gambling cravings

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Author(s): Hawker, Chloe O. ; Merkouris, Stephanie ; Youssef, George J. ; Dowling, Nicki A.

Journal: Journal of Medical Internet Research

Year Published: 2021

Date Added: July 30, 2021

GamblingLess: Curb Your Urge is the first ecological momentary intervention (EMI) delivered through smartphone for managing gambling cravings. It aims to provide intervention to people in the moment that they need it. This study tested whether GamblingLess would be acceptable, feasible, and effective for people with gambling problems. Participants were prompted to complete a brief ecological momentary assessment (EMA) three times daily. If they reported having gambling cravings, the app’s EMI feature recommended they use the tips and activities. Overall, participants rated the intervention as acceptable and were satisfied with it. But, compliance rates for completing the EMAs and using the EMI were low. The intervention was able to reduce gambling episodes and cravings.

Citation: Hawker, C. O., Merkouris, S. S., Youssef, G. J., & Dowling, N. A. (2021). A smartphone-delivered ecological momentary intervention for problem gambling (GamblingLess: Curb Your Urge): Single-arm acceptability and feasibility trial. Journal of Medical Internet Research, 23(3), e25786. https://doi.org/10.2196/25786

Article DOI: https://doi.org/10.2196/25786

Keywords: cravings ; Ecological Momentary Assessment (EMA) ; gambling ; gambling urges ; interventions ; mobile devices ; problem gambling ; self-efficacy ; treatment

Topics: Gambling Cognitions ; Gambling Resources ; Information for Operators ; Information for Treatment Providers

Conceptual Framework Factors: Psychological Factors ; Gambling Resources ; Resources - Interventions

Study Design: Evaluation Design

Geographic Coverage: Australia

Study Population: Adults who were seeking help for their own gambling problems (n = 36 completed the baseline measures; 82% downloaded the app, 61% completed the post-intervention evaluation, and 58% completed the follow-up evaluation)

Sampling Procedure: Voluntary response / convenience sampling – the researchers used advertisements posted in gambling venues and on the web (paid and free social media advertisements). They also used media announcements (print, radio, and television). In addition, counsellors from several gambling treatment services provided information about the study to their clients.

Study Funding:

No funding source was declared for this study.