Cognitive distortion

Recovery language

Definition

A belief about gambling that is factually wrong but feels true while gambling — that a machine is "hot," that a loss streak means a win is coming, that skill improves a coin flip. These beliefs are a core treatment target because they are what makes continued betting feel rational.

Preferred phrasing

safe to use as written.

Source

https://www.ncpgambling.org/help-treatment/problem-gambling-treatment-options/

Cite this

Betttr. "Cognitive distortion." The Gambling Recovery Glossary. https://betttr.net/glossary/cognitive-distortion/ (accessed 2026-09-20).

Last updated: 2026-09-20.

Corrections: support@betttr.net