Reflex vs Reasoning: A Dual-Process Examination of Implicit Decision-making in Problem Gamblers

Farr, Zoe (2023) Reflex vs Reasoning: A Dual-Process Examination of Implicit Decision-making in Problem Gamblers. Doctoral thesis, University of East Anglia.

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Abstract

Aims: The focus of this thesis is to explore the role of implicit cognition and the dual-process relationship between conscious and unconscious decision-making processes in problem gambling. The systematic review aimed investigate the extent and nature of attentional bias as a phenomenon which exists within problem gamblers. The empirical project aimed to investigate the relationship between implicit measures of cognition and explicit self-report measures, and the relationship between these measures and loss of control of gambling behaviour.

Methods: The systematic review synthesised available research on attentional bias in problem gamblers, with 22 studies included in the final review following screening. The empirical research project utilised two implicit tasks in addition to several explicit self-report measures of cognition and other constructs. The study sample consisted of 48 participants who were categorised based on problem gambling severity scores.

Results: Attentional bias was demonstrated in 16 of the 22 studies included in the systematic review, with attentional bias effects varying across paradigms. In the empirical project, no significant differences were found between groups on implicit tasks. Analysis of self-report measures revealed a significant relationship between problem gambling severity and measures of erroneous cognitions and impulsivity. Conclusions: Results of the systematic review provide support for the role of attentional bias as a potential maintaining factor in problem gambling behaviour. Findings of the empirical project did not support a relationship between loss of control of gambling behaviour and implicit cognitive processes, however results did provide evidence for the role of erroneous cognitions and impulsivity as factors related to problem gambling. Further research needed to explore the role of implicit decision-making processes in problem gambling.

Item Type:	Thesis (Doctoral)
Faculty \ School:	Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences > Norwich Medical School
Depositing User:	Chris White
Date Deposited:	18 Nov 2024 09:30
Last Modified:	18 Nov 2024 09:30
URI:	https://ueaeprints.uea.ac.uk/id/eprint/97701
DOI:

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