Brief interventions for problem gambling: A meta-analysis

Experts were also contacted to access to information about any ongoing or unpublished studies The eligibility criteria included (1) English language, (2) a sample comprised of adults aged 16 years or older with gambling problems assessed by a validated measure, (3) randomized control trial study design, (4) in-person individual psychosocial interventions of brief duration, (5) an active or inactive control group, and (6) gambling and/or associated problems as an outcome measure.

After applying the selection criteria, seven publications remained to be analyzed. Procedures were consistent with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) criteria. Data extracted from the publications includes: Study design features (e.g., setting, clinician); Sample features (demographic information, clinical information); Screening instruments used (e.g., PGSI); Intervention details (e.g., components, duration); Outcomes (e.g. instruments, indicators); and Indicators to detect bias (The Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool).