Development and Psychometric Evaluation of the Recovery Index for Gambling Disorder (RIGD)

Objective: Recovery from Gambling Disorder lacks established operational criteria and a dedicated outcome measure. Cross-study comparisons and treatment efficacy determinants are difficult without a valid and widely used tool to assess recovery. The current article describes the development and psychometric evaluation of the Recovery Index for Gambling Disorder (RIGD). Method: Item development was based on an integration of academic, clinical, and consumer perspectives of recovery. Expert feedback and cognitive interview techniques were employed to review and refine the initial item pool. An empirical evaluation of the RIGD was conducted using 204 adult participants (63.7% male) with experience of seeking formal help for gambling problems. Results: Partial-least squares structural equation modeling resulted in a 32-item solution across 6 recovery dimensions: gambling reduction, urge coping, recovery wisdom, life functioning, interpersonal relationships, and mental health. The RIGD structural model explained 71.9% of variance in an external self-report global measure of recovery. Convergent validity was evidenced by significant correlations between all RIGD dimensions and other related measures, with the exception of recovery wisdom. Criterion-related validity was demonstrated as RIGD composite scores accurately classified nonproblem from problem gamblers, with a conservative cut-off score of 45. Test-retest reliability was established over a 2-week interval. Conclusions: The RIGD is an empirically supported instrument designed to broadly measure recovery from Gambling Disorder. Valid and uniform measurement of recovery is important given its central role in advancing effective treatments and shaping gambling help service policy internationally.