The Canadian Problem Gambling Index: An Evaluation of the Scale and Its Accompanying Profiler Software in a Clinical Setting

Across two studies we assessed the clinical utility of the Canadian Problem Gambling Index (CPGI). In Study 1, the scored
items on the CPGI significantly correlated with those of the South Oaks Gambling Screen (SOGS), yet their shared variance
was low. Importantly, clinician evaluation of the client’s level of pathology was more strongly associated with that revealed
by the CPGI than the SOGS. In terms of utility, clinicians found the non-scored items on the CPGI more useful in treatment
than those included with the SOGS. In Study 2, the effectiveness of the CPGI profiler (CPGI-P) software, which graphically
depicts problematic gambling-relevant attitudes and behaviours, was assessed. Although clients had difficulties using the
CPGI-P interface, they overwhelmingly indicated that the output prompted action to address their gambling. The clinicians
were less enthusiastic as they felt the output did not help clients truly understand their gambling problems. Such sentiments
were reiterated by the clinicians at a 6 months follow-up. The use of the SOGS and possible adoption of the CPGI (as well
as the CPGI-P) in a clinical setting are discussed.