How can adopting mixed methods enhance understanding?

The use of mixed methods requires examples of how this approach is applied so that related challenges can be identified. However, only a few studies on gambling have ventured to provide any examples and illustrated the integration process. Using the example of a sequential mixed-methods study on passion for poker, the aim is to describe the process of integrating methods and results as well as the reach of the methodology in understanding the issue being investigated. Although the quantitative results were limited, as regards the significance and pertinence of the concept of passion, the qualitative results led us to conclude that players found this concept meaningful. The qualitative results also enhanced understanding of gambling behaviours, whereas the quantitative data alone were not revealing. Conversely, the qualitative interviews alone would not have led to a fuller understanding of the links between obsessive passion and gambling problems, since players were reluctant to talk about obsessive passion. The study of passion for poker provides a good example of how adopting mixed methods can enhance understanding and identify practical spin-offs.