Gambling Assessment

Overview

There are many assessment tools available to measure rates of problem and pathological gambling. Although many of these assessment tools are based on self-assessments, others are designed to be administered by a mental health professional. The majority of the assessment tools are for screening purposes and are used to indicate whether or not a gambling problem may be present. These tools include:

• Canadian Problem Gambling Index (CPGI)
• Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)
• National Opinion Research Center DSM Screen for Gambling Problems (NODS)
• South Oaks Gambling Screen (SOGS)

Key Points

Although these tools are often designed for the majority (i.e. an adult population), some tools have multiple versions to make them applicable and specifically relevant to other populations and demographic groups (e.g. adolescents). In addition, some assessments have shortened versions which makes them easier to use in time-sensitive situations. It is important to remember that harms from gambling may occur at any level and assessment tools do not always capture this concept.

Search the Evidence Centre for Gambling Assessment