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Playing Texas Hold 'em Online Poker (THOP) is on the rise. However, there is relatively little research examining factors that contribute to problem gambling in poker players. The aim of this study was to extend the research findings of Hopley and Nicki (2010). The negative mood states of depression, anxiety and stress were found to be linked to problem gambling; yet, the contribution of each factor was not independently assessed. In addition, skill may be particularly important for poker players. Therefore, the effects of two potential contributing factors, yearly monetary earnings and locus of control, on problem gambling were investigated. Participants were self-selected online poker players (N = 62) who completed an online survey. Results revealed that participants played an average of 16 h per week. Furthermore, 11.5% of the sample was classified as problem gamblers according to the Canadian Problem Gambling Index. Problem gambling was uniquely predicted by time played, the negative emotion of stress, and locus of control.

Psychopathy and substance dependence (SUD) is highly prevalent in incarcerated populations and tends to co-occur in the same individuals. The factors underlying this relationship are not clearly understood. The primary purpose of this study was to investigate whether two personality models mediate the relationship between psychopathy and substance misuse in male offenders. Ninety-two inmates in provincial correctional centers in New Brunswick completed questionnaires, including the Sensitivity to Reward Sensitivity to Punishment Questionnaire to measure behavioral activation and behavioral inhibition, the Substance Use Risk Profile Scale to measure anxiety sensitivity, introversion/hopelessness, sensation seeking and impulsivity, and the Psychopathic Personality Inventory-Revised to assess psychopathy levels. Results revealed that high impulsivity indirectly mediated the relationship between psychopathy and stimulant dependence. In addition, low anxiety sensitivity indirectly mediated the relationship between psychopathy and opioid dependence. Finally, impulsivity indirectly and inconsistently mediated the relationship between psychopathy and alcohol dependence. These results suggest that individuals with psychopathic traits are at increased risk of misusing certain drugs due to underlying personality-based differences., (Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)