Dissociative Experiences in Gambling Disorder

Purpose of ReviewThis review provides a summary of the literature (2012-2018) regarding dissociative experiences in Gambling Disorder (GD). We provide an overview of conceptualizations of dissociation, its relationship to GD, dissociation within specific types of gambling, and harm reduction strategies targeting gambling-related dissociative experiences.Recent FindingsThe gambling literature lacks a unified conceptualization of dissociative experiences, and measures different aspects of dissociation across studies. The propensity of some individuals toward general and in-game dissociation appears to be involved in the development and/or maintenance of GD. Several features of gambling may facilitate in-game dissociation, particularly among individuals with GD. As such, tools that disrupt in-game dissociation may be crucial for harm reduction.SummaryFuture research should be aimed at developing a single, operational definition of dissociation in gambling, and this should be systematically examined across gambling modalities. Additionally, ongoing refinement of interventions that effectively interrupt in-game dissociation holds promise for reducing gambling-associated harms.