This form a treatment helps recondition Natalie’s behavioural response, so that gambling no longer provides reinforcement. Although more commonly used in the past for addictions like alcohol and smoking (e.g. through drugs like Antabuse or rapid smoking), aversion therapy can be adapted for behavioural addictions. For example, some studies have trialled methods where gamblers are shown gambling stimuli paired with aversive images or sounds to reduce their urges. However, while it can be effective in the short term, critics argue that the effects may not generalise to real-world situations, and relapse is common unless combined with longer-term support for cognitive behavioural therapy. For Natalie, aversion therapy might provide an initial deterrent to reduce her frequent gambling trips, but it should ideally be followed up with psychological interventions that target the root of her addictions.
