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Problem and pathological gambling: a conceptual review

Author: P. Delfabbro Published: December 2013
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Summary

This report by Paul Delfabbro from the University of Adelaide reviews problem and pathological gambling, examining definitions, theories, measurement issues, and the stability of gambling problems over time.

Topics covered

  • terminology and theoretical approaches
  • measurement of problem gambling
  • stability and consistency of gambling problems
  • conceptual issues in problem gambling research

Key findings

Problem gambling definitions vary between psychiatric and public health approaches. Measures do not always align with accepted definitions. Longitudinal studies show gambling problems can be unstable over time for many people.

A multidisciplinary approach considering both individual and societal factors is needed to fully understand problem gambling.

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