Are there cognitive and behavioural approaches specific to the treatment of pathological gambling?

Abstract

Objective: Treatment approaches for pathological gambling have been modelled after preexisting substance addiction models. This paper reviews cognitive-behavioural models in a search for original insights that are specific to gambling treatment. Method: A computerized search of major health care databases (Medline and PsycINFO) was performed. Results: New cognitive-behavioural approaches to the treatment of pathological gambling provide 3 original additions to the traditional multimodal treatment of addictions: cognitive restructuring, in vivo exposure, and imaginal desensitization. Other cognitive-behavioural techniques, such as relapse prevention, problem solving, and social skill training, are shared by gambling treatment and addictions treatment. Conclusions: When treating pathological gamblers, clinicians must consider introducing techniques to address cognitive distortions related to gambling. Also, cue exposure-whether in vivo or imaginal-may help deal with urges prompted by such cues. The blending of these new techniques into a multimodal addiction treatment potentially balances the rational and external orientation of the cognitive-behavioural approach with interpersonal and introspective components of the traditional addiction treatment.