Examination of proposed DSM-5 changes to pathological gambling in a helpline sample.

Objectives: To examine the effect of proposed the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5) changes to pathological gambling relative to DSM-IV criteria in a large gambling helpline sample (N = 2,750). Changes in prevalence rates, the diagnostic utility of the illegal acts criterion, and severity of alternative diagnostic formulation thresholds were examined.

Method: Callers to the helpline completed a semistructured interview and DSM-IV criteria were assessed.

Predictors of engaging in problem gambling treatment: data from the West Virginia Problem Gamblers Help Network.

Gambling help-lines are an essential access point, or frontline resource, for treatment seeking. This study investigated treatment engagement after calling a gambling help-line. From 2000-2007 over 2,900 unique callers were offered an in-person assessment appointment.