Perceptions among pathological and nonpathological gamblers

Abstract

This study evaluated the perceptions of individuals while gambling on a Video Lottery Terminal. The primary goal was to compare the frequency of erroneous perceptions and of gambling-related perceptions among pathological and nonproblem gamblers. The degree of conviction in these perceptions was also evaluated. Each participant was assessed by a clinical psychologist using the DSM-IV criteria. Results showed that, contrary to the first hypothesis, no significant differences emerged between problem and nonproblem gamblers on the percentage of erroneous perceptions. But, pathological gamblers verbalized significantly more gambling related perceptions and were more convinced in the truth of their perceptions than the nonproblem gamblers. The theoretical and clinical implications of these results are discussed in order to improve the effectiveness of treatment interventions for pathological gamblers.