5. Cognitive Theory for Gambling Addiction

Question 1

what is the cognitive theory for gambling addiction?

Answer 1

The theory is based upon cognitive bias: a way of thinking which rather than reflecting reality rather reflects the gambler’s own perception.

Question 2

what are the components of the cognitive theory? explain them (5)

Answer 2

• Expectancy theory: if they expect the benefits of gambling to outweigh the costs, they are more prone to addiction.
• gamblers fallacy: perceived control
• Selective recall bias: gamblers are more prone to remember wins than losses.
• Langers illusion of control: superstitious behaviour or the belief to manipulate the outcome of a bet.
• Self-efficacy: Bandura argued that one’s perception of a successful abstinence influences the behaviour.

Question 3

what is the main piece of evidence for cognitive theory?

Answer 3

Griffiths: 6x as many irrational verbalisations than irregular gamblers.

Question 4

what are the pieces of evidence that supports Griffiths findings? (3)

Answer 4

• McCusker and Gettings: stroop test
• Burger and Smith: internal LOC = likely addiction
• Application to treatment

Question 5

what are the criticisms of the cognitive bias theory? (2)

Answer 5

• Clarke: individual differences are not explained fully in the theory.
• Dickinson and Connor: gamblers vocals also may not be truly representative of internal thought.