Processes of changing gambling behavior.

Recovered problem gamblers (N = 37) described the processes used in overcoming their gambling problem using a modified version of the Processes of Change Questionnaire (J. O. Prochaska, W. F. Velicer, C. C. DiClemente, & J. S. Fava, 1988). The most frequently used processes were cognitive-experiential in nature and included self-reevaluation, environmental reevaluation, dramatic relief, and self-liberation. The least-used processes were reinforcement management and social liberation. Individuals who had sought gambling treatment reported greater use of most processes, in particular cognitive-experiential ones, compared with self-changers. The processes reported by participants were similar to those elicited through open-ended questions, but the results for problem gamblers differ from results of studies of other types of behavior change.