The Evaluation of an Internet-based Self-Directed Motivational Enhancement Intervention for Problem and Pathological Gamblers

Date
2014-09-18
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Abstract
This study compared an Internet-based adaptation of a brief intervention for gamblers using Motivational Interviewing (MI) principles to an online screener and feedback program. Moderate-risk and problem gamblers were recruited from cities and communities across Canada; recruitment is ongoing and interim analyses were conducted on the data available to date. Participants (N = 40) completed a telephone interview and were randomized to complete either the motivational enhancement intervention or the online screener and feedback program. Follow-up telephone interviews were conducted at 1 and 3 months post-intervention. While the current study found no advantage for the motivational intervention, participants in both conditions reported decreases in days and dollars lost gambling, problem gambling severity, and increases in readiness to change over the short-term follow-up period. The observed results are discussed with respect to limitations and implications for future research.
Description
Keywords
Psychology--Clinical
Citation
Swan, J. L. (2014). The Evaluation of an Internet-based Self-Directed Motivational Enhancement Intervention for Problem and Pathological Gamblers (Master's thesis, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada). Retrieved from https://prism.ucalgary.ca. doi:10.11575/PRISM/28134