The importance of coping skill enhancement in the treatment of the pathological gambler

The importance of coping skill enhancement in the treatment of pathological gamblers is discussed. It is particularly critical to assess and enhance the coping skills of relapse prone gamblers who are marked by unusual degrees of impulsivity, high levels of negative affect and feelings of helplessness and hopelessness. A study of 1129 substance abusers, including 140 with serious gambling problems is reported. All were assessed to determine their repertoire of coping skills. The patients with serious gambling problems utilized significantly more avoidant and impulsive coping styles.