Does the Habit Theory of Addictions Extend to Disordered Gambling?

Purpose of review: 'Habit theory' is a pervasive framework that describes addiction as a transition from goal-directed use (e.g. of drugs) to habitual response, accompanied by a neurobiological shift in fronto-striatal brain circuitry. As a theory that has been explored in the context of substance addictions, this article evaluates the conceptual fit of habit theory to gambling behavior and gambling disorder, and summarizes recent empirical evidence.

Recent findings: Relevant research falls into two main themes. First, studies have compared behavioral markers of habit (e.g. the two-step task, Pavlovian-to-Instrumental Transfer effects) in groups with and without gambling problems. These studies find limited direct support for the hypothesis. Second, psychological research has begun to examine habit-like behaviors in naturalistic gambling. These studies find behavioral expressions consistent with habit formation, primarily during engagement with slot machines, but are yet to test key tenets of habit theory such as insensitivity to outcome devaluation.

Summary: Modern gambling products (e.g. slot machines, in-play sports betting) create rich learning environments that may be highly amenable to habit formation. Further research is needed to develop and validate new tools for testing habit formation and habit strength / persistence in the context of gambling.