A Comparison of Leisure and Gambling Motives of Compulsive Gamblers

Authors

  • C P Coyle
  • W B Kinney

Keywords:

Compulsive Gambling, Gambling, Recreation, Motives, Pathological Play

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the recreational and gambling motives of compulsive gamblers. Sixty-one compulsive gamblers completed a gambling/recreation questionnaire. Sections of this questionnaire utilized Driver's (1978) Recreation Experience Preference scales. Frequency distributions revealed that the demographic profile of the sample was similar to demographic trends reported in the literature on compulsive gambling. Compulsive gamblers reported the motives ofrisk and sensation seeking as being more important for their gambling behavior while being with the family, exercise, and relating with nature were more important motives for their leisure behavior. Findings support existing theoretical conceptualizations regarding the motives for compulsive gambling behavior.

Published

1990-01-01

Issue

Section

Regular Papers