A laboratory study of the relationship between gambling -related irrational beliefs and gambling behavio

This two-part analog investigation examined the relationship between irrational beliefs and gambling behavior. Initially, 89 participants completed pre-experiment irrational beliefs measures and then gambled at a computerized roulette game. Results suggested that there was no relationship between gambling-related irrational beliefs and gambling behavior. In the second session, the 89 participants were randomized to a control condition or an experimental condition that involved a brief psychoeducational video designed to modify participants' irrational beliefs. Participants then gambled again at the computerized roulette game. Following the second gambling session, all participants completed follow up measures. Results revealed that the psychoeducational intervention produced significant reductions in gambling-related irrational beliefs. However, concomitant changes in gambling behavior were not observed. Findings from both sessions challenge the causal role of irrational beliefs in gambling behavior.