Pathological Gambling: Conceptual, Diagnostic, and Treatment Issues
A Practitioner's Resource Series Title

By:
Martin C. McGurrin

    This book presents diagnosticians, psychotherapists, case managers, and clinical researchers with a clear conceptualization of the psychodynamic and behavioral issues involved in pathological gambling, and offers practical guidance and concrete suggestions for treating pathological gamblers.  Clearly describes currently available assessment and treatment models and procedures.
     Includes a comprehensive presentation of the relationships between pathological gambling, alcoholism, and substance abuse, and the diagnostic and treatment implications of those relationships.
     Provides invaluable information on the assessment and treatment of adults, adolescents, and children who have gambling problems.  Examines the interpersonal problems of pathological gamblers, and addresses family treatment issues and procedures.  Contains several detailed case histories.
     Documents the history of gambling behavior, the changing attitudes toward gambling that have led to expanded legalization, and the view that uncontrollable gambling is a psychological disorder rather than a moral weakness.

Reviews

"An indispensable addition to the sparse professional literature on pathological gambling.  Dr. McGurrin's rich and detailed case studies provide an ideal springboard for his very practical clinical advice.  His conceptual discussion of pathological gambling, particularly the role of the family in relation to the etiology and treatment of this disease, is creative and thought-provoking...this volume contains important insights and information for mental health practitioners, patients and family members."
     *Vincent J. Rinella, Jr., JD, MA, Director, Clinical Program Development, Philadelphia Psychiatric Center

"An interesting, concise, and easy to read treatise on the disorder of pathological gambling...provides 'state-of-the art' information."
     *American Journal of Psychiatry