Why do people gamble, and why is it that people sometimes gamble to excess? Originally published in 1992, The Psychology of Gambling provides a comprehensive study of gambling behaviour and explores both theories and therapies for the treatment of problem gambling. Involvement in each form of gambling is examined in terms of social and cognitive factors and from this a socio-cognitive theory of gambling is developed in which false beliefs about gambling play a core role in maintaining gambling involvement. While alternative theories of gambling are reviewed, excessive gambling is explained in terms of irrational thinking with the implication that the most effective therapy for gambling problems is some form of cognitive restructuring.

For psychologists, psychotherapists and anyone interested in the phenomenon of gambling.