Online Poker Intervention Study Summary
This page summarizes one randomized controlled trial involving problem gamblers recruited directly from an online poker platform. It should not be read as universal treatment guidance.
The study recruited online poker gamblers screening at PGSI ≥5 and randomized eligible participants to a waiting list or one of three internet-delivered intervention conditions.
Citation
Luquiens A. et al. “The Efficacy of Three Modalities of Internet-Based Psychotherapy for Non–Treatment-Seeking Online Problem Gamblers: A Randomized Controlled Trial.”
Study overview
Active poker customers on the Winamax platform were offered screening. Eligible problem gamblers were randomized to a waiting-list control, personalized normalized feedback, a self-help CBT program without guidance, or the same CBT program with weekly psychologist guidance.
Why the study is relevant
Unlike much responsible-gambling research conducted on slots or mixed gambling populations, recruitment occurred in an online poker environment. That improves topical relevance to a poker education site.
Limitations
The study population consisted of screened problem gamblers on one platform and evaluated specific internet interventions. It does not establish that the same effect sizes apply to all poker players, jurisdictions, platforms or prevention tools.
Practical meaning
The study supports treating problem gambling as a health issue that can warrant structured intervention rather than as a simple failure of strategy or bankroll management. Readers experiencing harm should use professional and jurisdiction-specific support resources.
Sources
- Luquiens et al. — Internet-Based Psychotherapy for Online Problem Gamblers — Randomized controlled trial recruiting problem gamblers from an online poker environment.
Source type and limitations are described above. External sources are used for verification; Double Up Poker calculations and explanations are independently produced.
Last updated: August 26, 2026 · Publisher: Double Up Poker