Don't Leave It to Chance: A Guide for Families of Problem Gamblers (Paperback)

~ Edward Federman (Author), Charles Drebing (Author), Edward J. Federman (Author) "Six hundred billion dollars a year are wagered legally in the United States-an amount exceeding one-third the entire federal budget..." (more)
Key Phrases: gambling relative, problem gambling, many problem gamblers, Gamblers Anonymous, New York, United States (more...)

Editorial Reviews

Product Description

Gambling can cause disruptions in every area of life, and the devastating effects don't stop with the gambler. Like any addiction, gambling takes its toll on the entire family, causing loss of trust, financial hardship, and difficult dynamics. Based on the authors' extensive research and filled with hands-on questionnaires, exercises, and charts, this book provides relatives of problem gamblers with a comprehensive program of cognitive-behavioral strategies to help them overcome the negative hold the habit has on their lives. It helps readers identify the problem, understand its origins, and assess its impact on the gambler and his or her family. Then it lays out easy-to-follow "action steps" to manage the problem, repair relations, recover financially, and get professional help if necessary.

Product Details

• Paperback: 200 pages
• Publisher: New Harbinger Publications (July 2000)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1572242000
• ISBN-13: 978-1572242005
• Product Dimensions: 8.9 x 6 x 0.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 13.4 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #604,089 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

23 of 24 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Enlightening, Thorough, Extremely helpful, July 11, 2000

By A Customer

I thought this book was extremely enlightening and thorough in it coverage of the disease of compulsive gambling. It is an excellent resource for families of compulsive gamblers in 1) understanding the disease 2) guiding families and friends of gamblers in the actions they need to take in order to protect themselves as well as in helping the gambler move closer to recovery. In addition, this book provides treatment resource info and some evaluation as to the effectiveness of those type of treatments. This book is a comprehensive guide for the families of compulsive gamblers. Extremely helpful and easy to understand.. A++

17 of 18 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Don't miss this book, June 11, 2001

By	Mary Flanagan (New York) - See all my reviews

I found this book helpful, realistic, and compassionate. Don't Leave It To Chance explores myths and misconceptions about gambling, helps us identify the extent of the problem, and guides us through the emotional and financial impact of the disorder. The authors skillfully bring us to a place where we can build a meaningful dialogue with family members, work through anger, anxiety and loss of trust, and begin the process of regeneration with new momentum and understanding. The scope is comprehensive with a style that is personal, enjoyable and logically consistent. I was amazed with the depth of insight into motivation, emotional issues and relationships I was collecting along the way. Written with deep psychological understanding and genuine concern, Don't Leave It To Chance sorts through the difficult emotions of this complex issue, teaching skills for introspection and communication that will serve readers in all aspects of their lives.