Self-perception of gambling problems among adolescents identified as at-risk or problem gamblers

J Gambl Stud. 2007 Dec;23(4):363-75. doi: 10.1007/s10899-006-9053-1. Epub 2007 Jan 24.

Abstract

The relative influence of perceived familial addictive behaviors and personal gambling behaviors on adolescents' self-perceptions of gambling problems was examined. Students from five high schools in Connecticut (N = 3,886) were surveyed. Of those between the ages of 14 and 17 who scored two or more on the South Oaks Gambling Screen--Revised for Adolescents (n = 532; 72% male; 43% Caucasian), 14.3% reported having a current or past problem with gambling. Wagering larger amounts in a single day, gambling on a daily basis, and perceived presence of a family member with a gambling problem were associated with increased odds of self-perception of a gambling problem. Thus, adolescents who may be less likely to be identified for prevention efforts (due to lack of engagement in high stakes gambling or the real/perceived absence of a problematic gambler in the home) appear less likely to perceive a gambling problem. To advance prevention and treatment strategies, the apparent discrepancy between adolescents' self-perceptions and objective reports of problem gambling behaviors warrants further investigation.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adolescent Behavior / psychology*
  • Age of Onset
  • Behavior, Addictive / epidemiology
  • Behavior, Addictive / psychology*
  • Connecticut / epidemiology
  • Female
  • Gambling / psychology*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Peer Group
  • Risk Factors
  • Risk-Taking*
  • Self Concept*
  • Self-Assessment
  • Students / statistics & numerical data
  • Surveys and Questionnaires