This study examined strategies used by the partners of pathological gamblers to cope with pathological gambling. Pathological gamblers and their partners identified the strategies that the partner used, as well as the reasons and contexts of use. There were 30 different strategies used by the partners. The main goals of these strategies were to reduce gambling behaviour and to protect the well-being of the partner, the couple or family. The same strategy could be used for different reasons and contexts. Generally, the gamblers reported the same strategies as their partners and similar reasons for use. The researchers are currently examining how effective these strategies are and the role partners play in gambling treatment.
