Poker Mania and Problem Gambling: a Study of Distorted Cognitions, Motivation and Alexithymia

Overview

Journal J Gambl Stud

Date 2009 Aug 4

PMID 19649568

Citations 26

Authors

Dana V Mitrovic

Jac Brown

Affiliations

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Abstract

This study examines the relationships between distorted cognitions, motivation, and alexithymia on problem gambling in poker players (n = 96). Respondents completed questionnaires containing the Canadian Problem Gambling Index, Gambling Motivation Scale, Gambler's Beliefs Questionnaire, and Toronto Alexithymia Scale-20. The results suggest that problem gambling is significantly related to distorted cognitions, non-self-determined motivation, and difficulty identifying feelings. Implications are drawn for the development of more relevant intervention, prevention, and treatment strategies.

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