The efficacy of motivational interviewing for disordered gambling: systematic review and meta‐analysis

Abstract

The researchers conducted a systematic review to examine the effectiveness of motivational interviewing (MI) as a treatment for disordered gambling. Six studies were included in a metaanalysis and the results of those studies were pooled for statistical analysis. MI was effective at decreasing the number of days spent gambling, and decreasing the amount of money lost. While the reductions were small, these results may be meaningful because MI requires very little time or resources to perform. The results provide some evidence for incorporating MI into clinical therapies and self‐help tools, particularly for those who do not seek treatment. The independent nature and brief time required by this approach may be one way to encourage individuals to participate in therapeutic change.