GamblingLess: In-The-Moment: a mixed-methods acceptability and engagement evaluation of a gambling just-in-time adaptive intervention
N. A. Dowling, S. S. Merkouris, C. J. Greenwood, G. J. Youssef, A. C. Thomas, C. O. Hawker, D. I. Lubman, S. N. Rodda

TL;DR
GamblingLess: In-The-Moment is a mobile app that provides timely support to reduce gambling by addressing cognitive vulnerabilities, and it was found to be acceptable and engaging for users.
Contribution
This study evaluates the acceptability and engagement of a JITAI for gambling reduction, highlighting features for optimization and user preferences.
Findings
Participants completed an average of 27 EMAs and spent 30 minutes in the app, indicating moderate engagement.
77% of participants preferred a hybrid push-pull approach and suggested features like in-person support and virtual coaches.
The JITAI was perceived as effective in supporting gambling reductions and promoting behavior change through awareness and skill-building.
Abstract
Mobile health interventions, particularly dynamic Just-In-Time Adaptive Interventions (JITAIs), can overcome barriers to gambling treatment by offering timely, accessible support in people’s everyday lives. GamblingLess: In-The-Moment is a theoretically-informed and evidence-based app-delivered JITAI to people who want to quit or reduce their gambling. The JITAI aims to reduce gambling symptom severity through short-term reductions in the likelihood of gambling episodes by improving cognitive vulnerability (craving intensity, self-efficacy, or positive outcome expectancies). It administers three daily ecological momentary assessments (EMAs) to deliver tailored interventions in moments of cognitive vulnerability. Given that intervention acceptability and engagement are likely to improve clinical outcomes, this study aimed to comprehensively examine these constructs for GamblingLess:…
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Taxonomy
TopicsDigital Mental Health Interventions · Gambling Behavior and Treatments · Mobile Health and mHealth Applications
