Impulsivity predictors of problem gambling and impaired control

Previous studies of the relationship between impulsivity and problem gambling have produced inconsistent results due to sampling issues and the measures utilised. The current study assessed five facets of impulsivity as predictors of both gambling impaired control and problem gambling in a random sample of 309 regular EGM players. The measures included the UPPS-P for impulsivity, the PGSI for problem gambling and the impaired control scale from the SLUGS. This sample comprised 173 women (56 %) with a mean age of 59.15 years and 146 men with a mean age of 57.18 years. Results revealed that lack of perseverance was not a predictor of either gambling measure and that negative urgency was the strongest predictor of both impaired control and problem gambling. The negative urgency result is discussed in the context of the pathways models and the emotionally vulnerable problem gambler. It was also found that for the PGSI, positive urgency, lack of premeditation and sensation seeking were weaker, but still significant predictors. This result is discussed with regard to the use of the PGSI in predicting gambling behaviour and problems in the wording of the positive urgency facet of the UPPS-P.