PhD
PhD by Research
Our PhD by research programme is based on independent study, guided by your assigned supervisors and support system. It typically [...]
Research Project Overview
Ronald’s research explores the relationship between working memory (WM) and gambling disorder, focusing on how WM relates to cognitive functions and metacognition. The project begins with a systematic review of literature on WM and problem gambling, following PRISMA guidelines, alongside a review of learning and memory processes in behavioural addictions. Empirical studies compare WM and compulsivity in land-based and online problem gamblers and examine associations between WM, impulsive decision-making, implicit learning, and metacognition. This research aims to provide clinical insights and enhance understanding of the connections between WM and cognitive functions in gambling disorder.
Funders: Centre of Excellence in Responsible Gaming, University of Gibraltar
Project Team
Project Lead: Mr Ronald Ngetich
Supervisors: Prof Zsolt Demetrovics (Primary Supervisor), Dr Andrea Czakó (Secondary Supervisor), Dr Prof Dezső Németh (Secondary Supervisor).
This research holds significant value as it aims to elucidate the relationship between working memory (WM) and gambling disorder, an increasingly prevalent issue in contemporary society. Understanding the cognitive mechanisms underlying gambling behaviour can lead to better insights into the nature of impulsivity and compulsivity associated with gambling disorders. By investigating the links between WM and various cognitive functions, including cognitive control and metacognition, the study contributes to the growing body of literature on behavioural addictions. The findings have the potential to inform therapeutic interventions, ultimately enhancing treatment approaches for individuals affected by gambling disorders and improving their overall quality of life.
Research methods
The study employs a systematic literature review and empirical research to examine the relationship between working memory (WM) and gambling disorder. The literature review adheres to PRISMA guidelines. For the empirical studies, a cross-sectional design is adopted. Psychometric tests measure problem gambling, WM, compulsivity, impulsivity, and metacognition. Participants are recruited via online advertisements, including both problem gamblers and matched healthy controls. Key measures include the DSM-based Structured Clinical Interview for Gambling Disorder, the Problem Gambling Severity Index, and various tasks assessing WM, cognitive control, compulsivity, and impulsivity. WM is assessed through operation span, n-back, and digit span tasks, while cognitive control is evaluated using a go/no-go task. Impulsivity is measured through the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale and neurophysiological tasks like Delayed Discounting and the Cups task. Learning mechanisms are examined with the Ice-Cream-Seller paradigm for reward learning and the Alternating Serial Reaction Time task for statistical learning. Lastly, metacognition is assessed using the Metacognitions about Gambling Questionnaire. Data from these measures will be analysed to explore relationships between WM and gambling disorder characteristics.
Relevance to the wider community
The importance of this research extends beyond academia, impacting the wider community by addressing a critical public health concern. Gambling disorders significantly affect individuals and their families, leading to severe financial, psychological, and social consequences. By shedding light on the cognitive factors involved in gambling behaviour, the research can raise awareness about the risks associated with gambling and the cognitive challenges faced by individuals with gambling disorders. This understanding is crucial for developing community resources, support systems, and prevention programs aimed at reducing gambling-related harm.
Pathways to impact
The pathways to impact from this research are multifaceted. Collaboration with mental health professionals, addiction specialists, and policymakers can facilitate the practical application of findings to develop targeted interventions and support services for individuals with gambling disorders. Disseminating research outcomes through community workshops, presentations, and publications can foster dialogue about gambling disorders and cognitive functioning, promoting informed discussions around prevention and treatment. Additionally, the research can lead to the development of assessment tools and therapeutic strategies that specifically address WM deficits in individuals experiencing gambling-related difficulties, ultimately contributing to better mental health outcomes and community resilience.
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