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Quaglieri A, Pizzo A, Cricenti C, Tagliaferri G, Frisari FV, Burrai J, Mari E, Lausi G, Giannini AM, Zivi P. Gambling and virtual reality: unraveling the illusion of near-misses effect. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1322631. [PMID: 38362030 PMCID: PMC10867214 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1322631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Studying gambling behavior is a crucial element in reducing the impact of problem gambling. Nevertheless, most current research is carried out in controlled laboratory settings rather than real-life situations, which raises concerns about how applicable the findings are in the broader context. Virtual reality (VR) has proven to be a valuable tool and has been utilized in various experimental scenarios. A limited number of studies have employed VR to investigate gambling behaviors, and few have explored them in an older adolescent context. Methods This study examined the behavioral and physiological effects of gambling behavior, including problem gambling, gaming addiction, and risk-taking decision-making in a sample of 36 high-school students aged between 18 to 20 years using an ad-hoc constructed VR scenario designed to simulate a slot-machine platform. Results The behavioral results highlighted that participants reporting more problem gambling were sensitive to near-misses: i.e., they bet more after near-misses than after losses. This result may reflect the false belief that gamblers, after near-misses, are closer to winning. Physiological data showed that participants exhibited heart rate deceleration during the anticipation of the outcome, which has been suggested to represent a marker of feedback anticipation processing and hyposensitivity to losses. Discussion Overall, this study provides evidence for a new VR tool to assess gambling behaviors and new insights into gambling-related behavioral and physiological factors. Implications for the treatment of problem gambling are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alessandra Pizzo
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Francesca Valeria Frisari
- Department of Psychology of Development and Socialization Processes, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Jessica Burrai
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Emanuela Mari
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Lausi
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Pierpaolo Zivi
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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Hing N, O’Mullan C, Mainey L, Greer N, Breen H. An integrative review of research on gambling and domestic and family violence: Fresh perspectives to guide future research. Front Psychol 2022; 13:987379. [PMID: 36312076 PMCID: PMC9606773 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.987379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper presents an integrative review of research on domestic and family violence (DFV), including intimate partner violence (IPV), experienced by victims and perpetrators with a gambling problem. It aims to review, critique, and synthesize research on this topic to generate fresh and alternative perspectives to guide future research. Based on a systematic search of the academic literature and a targeted search of gray literature, the paper summarizes findings from empirical studies pertaining to the prevalence of perpetration and victimization, characteristics of perpetrators and victims, and explanations for this violence. Based on this review, the paper suggests several potential improvements that can be considered in future studies. These include a shift from focusing on situational violence to also include coercive control; greater sensitivity in research design and interpretation to gender differences in experiences of violence; and the need to include economic abuse as a form of DFV/IPV. Adopting a public health lens is also recommended to broaden the research focus from victims and perpetrators to also consider contextual factors. In particular, gambling research should examine the contribution of gambling products, practices, environments, and marketing to DFV/IPV and how this might be ameliorated. While research to date has drawn much needed attention to the risks that gambling presents for DFV/IPV, this review provides some suggestions for future research so that it can provide more nuanced findings to inform policy and practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nerilee Hing
- School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Bundaberg, QLD, Australia
- *Correspondence: Nerilee Hing,
| | - Cathy O’Mullan
- School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Bundaberg, QLD, Australia
| | - Lydia Mainey
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Central Queensland University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Nancy Greer
- School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Bundaberg, QLD, Australia
| | - Helen Breen
- Faculty of Business and Law and Arts, Southern Cross University, Lismore, NSW, Australia
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O'Mullan C, Hing N, Mainey L, Nuske E, Breen H. Understanding the Determinants of Gambling-Related Intimate Partner Violence: Perspectives From Women Who Gamble. Violence Against Women 2022; 28:3037-3059. [PMID: 34817274 DOI: 10.1177/10778012211051399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Rates of intimate partner violence (IPV) victimization are higher among women with a gambling problem. However, women's experiences of this violence, from a gendered perspective, have not been examined. Based on interviews with 24 women, this study explored how problem gambling contributes to IPV against women across three levels of influence. Findings reveal that problem gambling did not directly cause IPV, but interacts where gendered drivers and reinforcers are present to exacerbate this violence. Reducing violence against women with a gambling problem requires a coordinated, integrated multidisciplinary approach targeting different levels of influence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cathy O'Mullan
- 527836Central Queensland University, Bundaberg, Queensland, Australia
| | - Nerilee Hing
- 527836Central Queensland University, Bundaberg, Queensland, Australia
| | - Lydia Mainey
- 527828Central Queensland University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - Elaine Nuske
- 4571Southern Cross University, Lismore, Australia
| | - Helen Breen
- 4571Southern Cross University, Lismore, Australia
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Hing N, O'Mullan C, Nuske E, Breen H, Mainey L, Taylor A, Greer N, Jenkinson R, Thomas A, Lee J, Jackson A. Gambling-Related Intimate Partner Violence Against Women: A Grounded Theory Model of Individual and Relationship Determinants. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2022; 37:NP18639-NP18665. [PMID: 34404246 DOI: 10.1177/08862605211037425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to examine how problem gambling interacts with gendered drivers of intimate partner violence (IPV) against women to exacerbate this violence. Interviews were conducted with 48 female victims of IPV linked to a male partner's gambling; 24 female victims of IPV linked to their own gambling; and 39 service practitioners from 25 services. Given limited research into gambling-related IPV, but a stronger theoretical base relating to IPV against women, this study used an adaptive grounded theory approach. It engaged with existing theories on gendered drivers of violence against women, while also developing a grounded theory model of individual and relationship determinants based on emergent findings from the data. Gambling-related IPV against women was found to occur in the context of expressions of gender inequality, including men's attitudes and behaviors that support violence and rigid gender expectations, controlling behaviors, and relationships condoning disrespect of women. Within this context, the characteristics of problem gambling and the financial, emotional and relationship stressors gambling causes intensified the IPV. Alcohol and other drug use, and co-morbid mental health issues, also interacted with gambling to intensify the IPV. Major implications. Reducing gambling-related IPV against women requires integrated, multi-level interventions that reduce both problem gambling and gendered drivers of violence. Gambling operators can act to reduce problem gambling and train staff in responding to IPV. Financial institutions can assist people to limit their gambling expenditure and families to protect their assets. Service providers can be alert to the co-occurrence of gambling problems and IPV and screen, treat, and refer clients appropriately. Public education can raise awareness that problem gambling increases the risk of IPV. Reducing gender inequality is also critical.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nerilee Hing
- Central Queensland University, Queensland, Australia
| | | | - Elaine Nuske
- Southern Cross University, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Helen Breen
- Southern Cross University, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Lydia Mainey
- Central Queensland University, Queensland, Australia
| | | | - Nancy Greer
- Central Queensland University, Queensland, Australia
| | | | - Anna Thomas
- Independent researcher, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jamie Lee
- Relationships Australia South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
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Dowling N, Merkouris S, Lubman D, Thomas S, Bowden-Jones H, Cowlishaw S. Pharmacological interventions for the treatment of disordered and problem gambling. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2022; 9:CD008936. [PMID: 36130734 PMCID: PMC9492444 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd008936.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pharmacological interventions for disordered and problem gambling have been employed in clinical practice. Despite the availability of several reviews of the efficacy of pharmacological interventions for disordered or problem gambling, few have employed systematic search strategies or compared different categories of pharmacological interventions. Systematic reviews of high-quality evidence are therefore essential to provide guidance regarding the efficacy of different pharmacological interventions for disordered or problem gambling. OBJECTIVES The primary aims of the review were to: (1) examine the efficacy of major categories of pharmacological-only interventions (antidepressants, opioid antagonists, mood stabilisers, atypical antipsychotics) for disordered or problem gambling, relative to placebo control conditions; and (2) examine the efficacy of these major categories relative to each other. SEARCH METHODS: We searched the Cochrane Common Mental Disorders Specialised Register, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, and PsycINFO (all years to 11 January 2022). SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised trials evaluating a pharmacological intervention for the treatment of disordered or problem gambling. Eligible control conditions included placebo control groups or comparisons with another category of pharmacological intervention. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We used standard methodological procedures, including systematic extraction of included study characteristics and results and risk of bias assessment. Our primary outcome was reduction in gambling symptom severity. Our secondary outcomes were reduction in gambling expenditure, gambling frequency, time spent gambling, depressive symptoms, anxiety symptoms, and functional impairment; and responder status. We evaluated treatment effects for continuous and dichotomous outcomes using standardised mean difference (SMD) and risk ratios (RR), respectively, employing random-effects meta-analyses. A minimum of two independent treatment effects were required for a meta-analysis to be conducted (with only meta-analytic findings reported in this abstract). MAIN RESULTS We included 17 studies in the review (n = 1193 randomised) that reported outcome data scheduled for end of treatment. Length of treatment ranged from 7 to 96 weeks. Antidepressants: Six studies (n = 268) evaluated antidepressants, with very low to low certainty evidence suggesting that antidepressants were no more effective than placebo at post-treatment: gambling symptom severity (SMD -0.32, 95% CI -0.74 to 0.09, n = 225), gambling expenditure (SMD -0.27, 95% CI -0.60 to 0.06, n = 144), depressive symptoms (SMD -0.19, 95% CI -0.60 to 0.23, n = 90), functional impairment (SMD -0.15, 95% CI -0.53 to 0.22, n = 110), and responder status (RR 1.24, 95% CI 0.93 to 1.66, n = 268). Opioid antagonists: Four studies (n = 562) evaluated opioid antagonists, with very low to low certainty evidence showing a medium beneficial effect of treatment on gambling symptom severity relative to placebo at post-treatment (SMD -0.46, 95% CI -0.74 to -0.19, n = 259), but no difference between groups in responder status (RR 1.65, 95% CI 0.86 to 3.14, n = 562). Mood stabilisers: Two studies (n = 71) evaluated mood stabilisers (including anticonvulsants), with very low certainty evidence suggesting that mood stabilisers were no more effective than placebo at post-treatment: gambling symptom severity (SMD -0.92, 95% CI -2.24 to 0.39, n = 71), depressive symptoms (SMD -0.15, 95% CI -1.14 to 0.83, n = 71), and anxiety symptoms (SMD -0.17, 95% CI -0.64 to 0.30, n = 71). Atypical antipsychotics:Two studies (n = 63) evaluated the atypical antipsychotic olanzapine, with very low certainty evidence showing a medium beneficial effect of treatment on gambling symptom severity relative to placebo at post-treatment (SMD -0.59, 95% CI -1.10 to -0.08, n = 63). Comparative effectiveness: Two studies (n = 62) compared antidepressants with opioid antagonists, with very low certainty evidence indicating that antidepressants were no more effective than opioid antagonists on depressive symptoms (SMD 0.22, 95% CI -0.29 to 0.72, n = 62) or anxiety symptoms (SMD 0.21, 95% CI -0.29 to 0.72, n = 62) at post-treatment. Two studies (n = 58) compared antidepressants with mood stabilisers (including anticonvulsants), with very low certainty evidence indicating that antidepressants were no more effective than mood stabilisers on depressive symptoms (SMD 0.02, 95% CI -0.53 to 0.56, n = 58) or anxiety symptoms (SMD 0.16, 95% CI -0.39 to 0.70, n = 58) at post-treatment. Tolerability and adverse events: Several common adverse effects were reported by participants receiving antidepressants (e.g. headaches, nausea, diarrhoea/gastrointestinal issues) and opioid antagonists (e.g. nausea, dry mouth, constipation). There was little consistency in the types of adverse effects experienced by participants receiving mood stabilisers (e.g. tiredness, headaches, concentration difficulties) or atypical antipsychotics (e.g. pneumonia, sedation, increased hypomania). Discontinuation of treatment due to these adverse events was highest for opioid antagonists (10% to 32%), followed by antidepressants (4% to 31%), atypical antipsychotics (14%), and mood stabilisers (13%). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS This review provides preliminary support for the use of opioid antagonists (naltrexone, nalmefene) and atypical antipsychotics (olanzapine) to produce short-term improvements in gambling symptom severity, although a lack of available evidence precludes a conclusion regarding the degree to which these pharmacological agents can improve other gambling or psychological functioning indices. In contrast, the findings are inconclusive with regard to the effects of mood stabilisers (including anticonvulsants) in the treatment of disordered or problem gambling, and there is limited evidence to support the efficacy of antidepressants. However, these conclusions are based on very low to low certainty evidence characterised by a small number of included studies, high risk of bias, modest pooled sample sizes, imprecise estimates, moderate between-study heterogeneity, and exclusion of participants with psychiatric comorbidities. Moreover, there were insufficient studies to conduct meta-analyses on many outcome measures; to compare efficacy across and within major categories of interventions; to explore dosage effects; or to examine effects beyond post-treatment. These limitations suggest that, despite recommendations related to the administration of opioid antagonists in the treatment of disordered or problem gambling, pharmacological interventions should be administered with caution and with careful consideration of patient needs. A larger and more methodologically rigorous evidence base with longer-term evaluation periods is required before definitive conclusions can be drawn about the effectiveness and durability of pharmacological treatments for disordered or problem gambling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicki Dowling
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
- Melbourne Graduate School of Education, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Dan Lubman
- Turning Point, Eastern Health, Melbourne, Australia
- Eastern Health Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Shane Thomas
- School of Health, Federation University, Melbourne, Australia
- Research School of Population Health, Australian National University, Melbourne, Australia
- Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Henrietta Bowden-Jones
- National Problem Gambling Clinic UK, Faculty of Brain Sciences, UCL, London, UK
- Department of Psychiatry, Cambridge University, Cambridge, UK
| | - Sean Cowlishaw
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
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Suomi A, Watson N, Butterworth P. How many children are exposed to at-risk parental gambling in Australia? Results from a representative national sample. Addict Behav 2022; 130:107305. [PMID: 35307616 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2022.107305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Revised: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Children of problem gamblers are at risk of harm, however, there are no population level estimates as to how many children are currently exposed to parental problem- and at-risk gambling. The current study analysed data from the Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) Survey, a nationally representative survey, to derive the first ever national estimates of the proportion of problem, moderate, and low risk gamblers (as measured by PGSI) in the Australian parent population. It also reports how many children under 15 years of age in Australia are exposed to parental gambling across the gambling risk categories. The results show that 13.7% of all Australian families with dependent children are currently exposed to some level of gambling risk due to parental gambling, and nearly 4% of families with children are exposed to parental moderate risk or problem gambling. This corresponds to almost 200,000 children each year. The results and approach of this study will guide future examination of child wellbeing in families where parents experience problems with gambling. The results are discussed in the context of public health approaches to familial gambling harm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aino Suomi
- Research School of Population Health, The Australian National University, Australia; Centre for Gambling Research, Centre for Social Research and Methods, The Australian National University, Australia; Institute of Child Protection Studies, The Australian Catholic University, Australia.
| | - Nicole Watson
- Melbourne Institute of Applied Economic and Social Research, University of Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Peter Butterworth
- Research School of Population Health, The Australian National University, Australia; Melbourne Institute of Applied Economic and Social Research, University of Melbourne, Australia.
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Gartner C, Bickl A, Härtl S, Loy JK, Häffner L. Differences in problem and pathological gambling: A narrative review considering sex and gender. J Behav Addict 2022; 11:267-289. [PMID: 35499928 PMCID: PMC9295224 DOI: 10.1556/2006.2022.00019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and aim A wide range of studies indicates that men and women with Problem (PrG) and Pathological Gambling (PG) differ in several clinical and sociodemographic characteristics. However, evidence for sex differences, such as the telescoping effect, is contradictory, and it is still unclear whether sex differences observed in offline gambling can also be found for online gambling. Furthermore, reviews have so far focused on binary sex differences but neglect gender aspects. In this study, an updated literature survey of sex- and gender-related differences in PrG and PG was conducted. Methods We searched PsyInfo, Medline/Pubmed, and the Web of Science databases from 2005 to 2020 for studies investigating sex and gender differences in gambling. A total of 126 papers were included in the literature survey. Results We are presenting our findings according to the categories 'prevalence' (offline, online, LGBTQI*), 'sociodemographic factors', 'preferred gambling type', 'gambling motives', 'severity', 'progression of gambling problems', 'use of professional help/motivation for treatment', 'comorbidity', 'trauma', 'violence and criminality/delinquency'. The studies indicate that, despite some robust sex differences (e.g., concerning prevalence rates), results for most areas were mixed or suggest no sex differences (e.g., violence, gambling motives). Discussion and conclusion To date, there is a lack of studies assessing gender, and not only sex, warranting further research in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corinna Gartner
- BAS Bayerische Akademie für Sucht- und Gesundheitsfragen (Unternehmergesellschaft haftungsbeschränkt), LSG Landesstelle Glücksspielsucht in Bayern, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Sabine Härtl
- BAS Bayerische Akademie für Sucht- und Gesundheitsfragen (Unternehmergesellschaft haftungsbeschränkt), LSG Landesstelle Glücksspielsucht in Bayern, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Laura Häffner
- BAS Bayerische Akademie für Sucht- und Gesundheitsfragen (Unternehmergesellschaft haftungsbeschränkt), LSG Landesstelle Glücksspielsucht in Bayern, Munich, Germany
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Parental problem gambling and child wellbeing: Systematic review and synthesis of evidence. Addict Behav 2022; 126:107205. [PMID: 34890890 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2021.107205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children living with a problem gambling parent are at risk of harm but no previous systematic reviews have specifically focused on the relationship of parental problem gambling and child wellbeing outcomes. The current review aimed to redress this gap by reviewing all available empirical evidence on parental problem gambling and child wellbeing. METHOD Articles were identified by searching PsychINFO, CINAHL, Medline and Scopus. The search included terminology pertaining to parents, problem gambling and children and we included all peer-reviewed articles that reported parental problem gambling and child wellbeing outcome(s). RESULTS Overall, 35 studies reporting a relationship between parental problem gambling and child wellbeing were included. Child wellbeing outcomes were reported across six domains: (1) psychological (k = 14); (2) family relationships (k = 17); (3) violence (k = 9); (4) behavioural (k = 7); (5) financial (k = 9); and (6) physical health (k = 3). The included studies were mostly unequivocal about negative impacts of parental problem gambling across the six domains. Sixteen studies provided evidence of negative child outcomes that were directly attributed to parental problem gambling (e.g., as a result of your parent's problematic gambling, you felt depressed). Nineteen studies reported evidence of the association of child negative outcomes and parental problem gambling but child outcomes were not directly attributed to parental problem gambling (e.g., parent is a problem gambler, child is depressed). Evidence was particularly robust on child distress and family dysfunction directly attributed to parental problem gambling. CONCLUSION This is the first systematic review focusing exclusively on specific intra- and interpersonal problems experienced by children whose parents have a gambling problem.
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Davies NH, Roderique-Davies G, Drummond LC, Torrance J, Sabolova K, Thomas S, John B. Accessing the invisible population of low-risk gamblers, issues with screening, testing and theory: a systematic review. J Public Health (Oxf) 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10389-021-01678-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
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Kaggwa MM, Mamum MA, Najjuka SM, Muwanguzi M, Kule M, Nkola R, Favina A, Kihumuro RB, Munaru G, Arinaitwe I, Rukundo GZ, Griffiths MD. Gambling-related suicide in East African Community countries: evidence from press media reports. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:158. [PMID: 35073902 PMCID: PMC8785390 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-12306-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Gambling activities and associated mental health problems have become a topic of increased concern globally. Many individuals with a severe gambling disorder have gambling-related suicidality. However, no study has explored gambling-related suicide in East African Community (EAC) countries. The present study investigated the press media reporting of gambling-related suicide cases from EAC countries. Methods As there is no established suicide database in that region, media reports were utilized to collect gambling-related suicide data. Gambling-related suicide case reports were searched for in EAC countries’ press media websites using Google. After removing duplicates, a total of 18 suicides were found. Results The victims were all males aged 16 to 40 years. The most prevalent reason for the death was university students who had used their university tuition fees for gambling and losing the money (n = 4/17). All the suicide deaths were in Kenya (10/18), Uganda (7/18), and Tanzania (1/18). Betting on soccer was the most common type of gambling reported (n = 11/15), and hanging was the most used mode of suicide (n = 10/16). Conclusions Based on the press media reports, 18 males were identified as having carried out gambling-related suicides. The countries with the most widespread opportunities to gamble had more gambling-related suicides, although the number of suicides was very small.
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Tulloch C, Browne M, Hing N, Rockloff M, Hilbrecht M. How gambling harms the wellbeing of family and others: a review. INTERNATIONAL GAMBLING STUDIES 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/14459795.2021.2002384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Tulloch
- School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Matthew Browne
- School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Bundaberg, Australia
| | - Nerilee Hing
- School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Bundaberg, Australia
| | - Matthew Rockloff
- School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Bundaberg, Australia
| | - Margo Hilbrecht
- Evidence Services, GREO, Ontario, Canada
- Dept. of Recreation and Leisure Studies, University of Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
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Castrén S, Lind K, Hagfors H, Salonen AH. Gambling-Related Harms for Affected Others: A Finnish Population-Based Survey. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:9564. [PMID: 34574487 PMCID: PMC8465844 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18189564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Aims This study explores the prevalence of being a past-year affected other (AO) of a problem gambler by gender. The aims were to study the amount and type of gambling-related harms (GRHs) for subgroups of AOs and to distinguish GRH profiles for AO subgroups. Methods A total of 7186 adults aged 18 years and over participated in the Gambling Harms Survey evaluating year 2016. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression. Results Of all respondents, 12.9% were defined as past-year AOs (women 13.7%; men 12.1%). The proportion of affected non-family members (ANFs) was 8.4%, and 5.6% were affected family members (AFMs). AFMs were usually women, and ANFs were usually men. Emotional, relationship, and financial harms were the most common types of harm. The odds of experiencing financial harm were highest for the 18- to 34-year-olds (OR 1.82) and for those whose partner/ex-partner had a gambling problem (OR 3.91). Having a parent/step-parent (OR 1.93) and child/stepchild (OR 3.64) increased the odds of experiencing emotional harm, whereas male gender (OR 0.50) and being an ANF (OR 0.58) decreased emotional harm. Relationship harm was evident for partners/ex-partners (OR 1.97-5.07). Conclusions GRH profiles for AO subgroups varied, which emphasizes the need for effective harm minimization strategies for those in need.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sari Castrén
- Health and Well-Being Promotion Unit, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, P.O. Box 30, 00271 Helsinki, Finland; (K.L.); (A.H.S.)
- Social Sciences Department of Psychology and Speech-Language Pathology, University of Turku, 20014 Turku, Finland
- Department of Medicine, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 64, 00013 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Kalle Lind
- Health and Well-Being Promotion Unit, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, P.O. Box 30, 00271 Helsinki, Finland; (K.L.); (A.H.S.)
| | - Heli Hagfors
- Faculty of Social Sciences (SOC), Tampere University, 33014 Tampere, Finland;
| | - Anne H. Salonen
- Health and Well-Being Promotion Unit, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, P.O. Box 30, 00271 Helsinki, Finland; (K.L.); (A.H.S.)
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, 70211 Kuopio, Finland
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Dowling NA, Oldenhof E, Cockman S, Suomi A, Merkouris SS, Jackson AC. Problem Gambling and Family Violence: Factors Associated With Family Violence Victimization and Perpetration in Treatment-Seeking Gamblers. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2021; 36:7645-7669. [PMID: 30894040 DOI: 10.1177/0886260519835877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Although problem gambling and family violence are related, there is little available research exploring the factors associated with this relationship. The primary aim was to predict family violence (victimization and perpetration) in a sample of treatment-seeking gamblers by gambling indices (gambling symptom severity, gambling time spent, gambling frequency, gambling expenditure), psychological distress, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, gambling coping motives, alcohol and drug use, gambling-related legal consequences, work and social adjustment, impulsivity, and gender. A secondary aim was to explore the degree to which these factors moderate the relationship between gambling symptom severity and family violence. Participants (n = 141) were consecutively recruited gamblers presenting to a gambling counseling service. The prevalence of family violence was 25.5%, with 18.4% reporting victimization and 19.1% reporting perpetration. Intimate partners and parents were most likely to be both perpetrators and victims of family violence. Victimization was significantly predicted by psychological distress, symptoms of PTSD, and gambling-related legal consequences, while perpetration was significantly predicted by gambling symptom severity, gambling-related legal consequences, and impulsivity. The association between gambling symptom severity and victimization was significant only for gamblers with low levels of gambling coping motives and moderate or high levels of alcohol use. These findings provide further support for routine screening in problem gambling and family violence services, particularly those who report gambling-related legal consequences; highlight the need for prevention and intervention programs to lower the co-occurrence of these behaviors; and suggest that reducing psychological distress, symptoms of PTSD, alcohol use, and impulsivity may be important in these efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicki A Dowling
- Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
- University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Sue Cockman
- University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Aino Suomi
- University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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14
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A Composite Measure of Gambling Exposure: Availability, Accessibility or Both? J Gambl Stud 2020; 37:1291-1310. [PMID: 33247819 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-020-09985-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Measures of availability and accessibility are often used separately or interchangeably to assess gambling exposure. This study examined the advantages of assessing gambling exposure using availability, accessibility, and a composite measure. Logistic and poisson regression analyses were used to determine the relative importance of these measures in predicting problem gambling using data from the 2008 and 2009 Social and Economic Impacts of Gambling in Alberta (SEIGA) surveys. The composite measure of gambling exposure predicted both the risk and severity of problem gambling better than the availability or accessibility measures alone. These results demonstrate that individual differences in problem gambling are better predicted by a composite measure of exposure.
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15
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Abstract
Abstract
Older subjects are susceptible to develop gambling problems, and researchers have attempted to assess the mechanisms underlying the gambling profile in later life. The objective of this study was to identify the main stressful life events (SLE) across the lifespan which have discriminative capacity for detecting the presence of gambling disorder (GD) in older adults. Data from two independent samples of individuals aged 50+ were analysed: N = 47 patients seeking treatment at a Pathological Gambling Outpatient Unit and N = 361 participants recruited from the general population. Sexual problems (p < 0.001), exposure to domestic violent behaviour (p < 0.001), severe financial problems (p = 0.002), alcohol or drug-related problems (p = 0.004) and extramarital sex (p < 0.001) were related to a higher risk of GD, while getting married (p = 0.005), moving to a new home (p = 0.003) and moving to a new city (p = 0.006) decreased the likelihood of disordered gambling. The accumulated number of SLE was not a predictor of the presence of GD (p = 0.732), but patients who met clinical criteria for GD reported higher concurrence of SLE in time than control individuals (p < 0.001). Empirical research highlights the need to include older age groups in evidence-based policies for gambling prevention, because these individuals are at high risk of onset and/or progression of behavioural addiction-related problems such as GD. The results of this study may be useful for developing reliable screening/diagnostic tools and for planning effective early intervention programmes aimed to reduce the harm related to the onset and evolution of problem gambling in older adults.
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16
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Uwiduhaye MA, Niyonsenga J, Muhayisa A, Mutabaruka J. Gambling, Family Dysfunction and Psychological Disorders: A Cross- Sectional Study. J Gambl Stud 2020; 37:1127-1137. [PMID: 33141413 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-020-09986-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The present study aimed to identify predictors and effects of problem gambling and examine the moderating role of family dysfunction between problem gambling and its effects. A sample of 104 gamblers (all were men, Mean = 26.2, SD = 6.8), was recruited from gambling venues in an urban area of Musanze district, Northern Province of Rwanda. Participants were aged above the legal age of 16 years. Data were collected using the Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI), the Brief Michigan Alcoholism Screening Test (Brief MAST), Drug Abuse Screening Test (DAST-10), the Psychopathy Checklist-Revised (PCL-R), the Big Five Inventory (BFI), the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) and the Family Dysfunction Test. SPSS (version22) was used to carry out all statistical analyses. Results showed that personality traits predicted problem gambling. Additionally, problem gambling was associated with alcohol use, drug abuse, sleep deprivation, antisocial tendency and family dysfunction. Family dysfunction moderated the effects of problem gambling on drug abuse, alcohol use and sleep deprivation. Gambling is a complex but assessable phenomenon and future studies may explore further its correlates.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Japhet Niyonsenga
- Clinical Psychology Department, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda.
| | - Assumpta Muhayisa
- Clinical Psychology Department, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Jean Mutabaruka
- Clinical Psychology Department, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
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17
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Dowling NA, Francis KL, Dixon R, Merkouris SS, Thomas SA, Frydenberg E, Jackson AC. "It Runs in Your Blood": Reflections from Treatment Seeking Gamblers on Their Family History of Gambling. J Gambl Stud 2020; 37:689-710. [PMID: 32671673 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-020-09959-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
There are considerable gaps in our understanding of the familial transmission of gambling problems. This convergent mixed-methods study aimed to explore the: (1) sources of heterogeneity in the familial (paternal, maternal, and sibling) transmission of gambling problems; (2) degree to which family-of-origin characteristics are associated with family-of-origin problem gambling; and (3) beliefs of gamblers about the nature of the familial transmission of problem gambling. The sample consisted of 97 treatment-seeking gamblers in Australia. One-quarter (25.5%) of participants reported that at least one family member (16.5% father, 7.5% mother, 7.6% siblings) living with them when they were growing up had a gambling problem. Most participants reported that family members with a positive history of problem gambling were biological relatives, lived with them full-time, and experienced long-term difficulties with gambling. Participants with a family history of problem gambling were young (less than 12 years of age) at the onset of parental, but not sibling, problem gambling, were women, and reported difficulties with the same gambling activity as their family member. Participants raised in families with problem gambling were more likely to report parental separation (risk ratio [RR] = 2.32) and divorce (RR = 2.83), and extreme family financial hardship (RR = 1.80), as well as low levels of paternal authoritative parenting than participants raised in non-problem gambling families. Qualitatively, both social learning and genetics were perceived to play a central role in the familial transmission of gambling problems. These findings inform theories of the familial transmission of gambling problems and the design of targeted prevention and intervention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- N A Dowling
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, Deakin Geelong, Geelong, Australia. .,Melbourne Graduate School of Education, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia.
| | - K L Francis
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - R Dixon
- School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - S S Merkouris
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, Deakin Geelong, Geelong, Australia
| | - S A Thomas
- Research School in Population Health, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia.,International Primary Health Care Research Institute, Shenzhen, China
| | - E Frydenberg
- Melbourne Graduate School of Education, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - A C Jackson
- Melbourne Graduate School of Education, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
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18
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Moayeri F. A reference set of Health State Utility Values for gambling problem behaviour, a survey of the Australian general population: implications for future healthcare evaluations. Expert Rev Pharmacoecon Outcomes Res 2020; 20:115-124. [DOI: 10.1080/14737167.2019.1610397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Foruhar Moayeri
- Eastern Health Clinical School, Eastern Health, Monash University, Richmond, Australia
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