A critical review of treatment approaches for gambling disorders

Curr Drug Abuse Rev. 2011 Jun;4(2):67-80. doi: 10.2174/1874473711104020067.

Abstract

This review presents the theoretical model, evidence base, and theoretical and methodological issues for seven treatment approaches to gambling disorders: 1) psychoanalytic and psychodynamic treatments, 2) Gamblers Anonymous, 3) behavioural treatments, 4) cognitive and cognitive-behavioural therapies, 5) brief, motivational, and self-directed interventions, 6) pharmacotherapies, and 7) family therapy approaches. Throughout the review, broader clinical and research issues are also discussed, including barriers to treatment-seeking, controlled gambling versus abstinence as a treatment goal, comorbidity, and the evaluation of treatment efficacy and effectiveness.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Gambling / drug therapy*
  • Gambling / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Psychotherapy / methods*
  • Psychotropic Drugs / therapeutic use*
  • Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
  • Self-Help Groups*
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Psychotropic Drugs