Attachment and Gambling Severity Behaviors Among Regular Gamblers: A Path Modeling Analysis Exploring the Role of Alexithymia, Dissociation, and Impulsivity

Gambling disorder is viewed by many as a behavioral addiction involving significant functional impairment and a deterioration in the quality of life. The aim of the present study was to explore the factors that can influence problematic gambling by specifically focusing on the role of attachment, alexithymia, dissociation, and impulsivity. The sample comprised 368 regular gamblers (59% males, 41% females; M-age=33.5 years). They completed an online survey consisting of the South Oaks Gambling Screen, Relationship Questionnaire, Twenty-Items Toronto Alexithymia Scale, Dissociative Experiences Scale-II, and Barratt Impulsiveness Scale-11. Path modeling was performed to analyze the collected data. Results showed a significant multiple mediation model: CMIN/DF = 4.447, GFI = 0.984, NFI = 0.964, CFI = 0.971, SRMR = 0.046. Fearful and preoccupied attachment patterns showed significant and positive associations with problematic gambling, and which were mediated by alexithymia, dissociation, and impulsivity. These results provide useful information to orient clinical practice and preventive intervention.