NODS

Overview

The National Opinion Research Center DSM Screen for Gambling Problems (NODS) is a screening measure based on the DSM-IV. It is a telephone-screening tool that identifies gambling problems as defined by the DSM-IV. It includes 34 items that yield a total score ranging from 0 to 10. Scores of 1 or 2 suggests some risk for the individual. Scores of 3 or 4 implies possible harmful gambling. A score of 5 or higher indicates probable pathological gambling. These numbers correspond to the DSM-IV criteria of gambling problems.

A self-assessment version (NODS-SA) is also available. This tool helps individuals decide if they should change their gambling behaviour, or seek help for their gambling.

Key Points

Studies have shown that the NODS is a reliable tool used to measure behaviour in the gambling population. Because it is based on the DSM-IV, the symptoms it measures are proven to be related to problem and pathological gambling. The NODS covers all the symptoms dictated by the DSM-IV. However, it does not ask any questions related to the individual's own perception of his or her gambling. Many researchers criticize this tool because of this limitation.

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References

Wickwire Jr, E. M., Burke, R. S., Brown, S. A., Parker, J. D., & May, R. K. (2008). Psychometric evaluation of the national opinion research center DSM-IV screen for gambling problems (NODS). American Journal on Addictions, 17(5), 392-395.

Fager, M. (2007). How does one measure gambling problems? International Journal of Testing, 6, 25-39.