Cognitive-behavioral therapy for pathological gambling: cultural considerations

Am J Psychiatry. 2009 Dec;166(12):1325-30. doi: 10.1176/appi.ajp.2009.08081235.

Abstract

Pathological gambling is a common disorder with severe consequences for patients and their families. This case study describes cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for pathological gambling and its general principles and provides an example of a modification of CBT techniques in the treatment of a 51-year-old immigrant Afro-Caribbean woman. The case depicts the contribution of beliefs, especially those that are part of a cultural system, to the perpetuation of a patient's disorder; the influence of family members' attitudes, moved by their cultural beliefs and values, in shaping the patient's behavior; and the consideration of these issues in guiding specific interventions, such as challenging irrational thoughts or helping patients devise strategies to change their behavior in a culturally congruent manner.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Clinical Conference
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / methods*
  • Culture*
  • Disruptive, Impulse Control, and Conduct Disorders / therapy
  • Female
  • Gambling / psychology*
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Treatment Outcome