Testing the Efficacy of RESPONSIBLEPLAY ©: A Multi-Theory Model (MTM)-Based Intervention Protocol for Promoting Responsible Gambling Among College Students

Sidath Kapukotuwa (), Kavita Batra, Christopher Johansen and Manoj Sharma
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Sidath Kapukotuwa: Department of Social and Behavioral Health, School of Public Health, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV 89119, USA
Kavita Batra: Department of Medical Education, Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV 89106, USA
Christopher Johansen: Department of Social and Behavioral Health, School of Public Health, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV 89119, USA
Manoj Sharma: Department of Social and Behavioral Health, School of Public Health, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV 89119, USA

IJERPH, 2025, vol. 22, issue 6, 1-16

Abstract: Background: Gambling behaviors among college students are a growing public health concern, with problem gambling rates significantly higher in this population than in the general public. Aim: This study outlines the protocol for a randomized controlled trial (RCT) evaluating the efficacy of RESPONSIBLEPLAY © , a Multi-theory Model (MTM)-based intervention designed to promote responsible gambling behaviors. Proposed Methods: The intervention integrates six MTM constructs—participatory dialogue, behavioral confidence, changes in the physical environment, emotional transformation, practice for change, and changes in the social environment—to address the initiation and sustenance of behavior change. College students aged 21 and older, scoring 3 or higher on the Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI), will be randomly assigned to either the MTM-based intervention group or a traditional knowledge-based intervention group. The participants will complete surveys assessing PGSI and MTM constructs at pre-test, post-test, and eight-week follow-up. This study aims to provide evidence for the efficacy of theory-driven intervention compared to a knowledge-based approach. Conclusions: If successful, this protocol will establish a robust framework for mitigating gambling-related harm in vulnerable college populations, paving the way for scalable, evidence-based interventions in diverse settings. The findings will contribute to the development of public health strategies that integrate theoretical constructs with practical applications to address high-risk behaviors.

Keywords: responsible gambling; college students; multi-theory model (MTM); behavior change; problem gambling severity index (PGSI); randomized controlled trial (RCT) (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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