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Motivators for change and barriers to help-seeking in Australian problem gamblers
1Department of Psychology, University of Adelaide, Nth. Tce., 5005, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia. paul.delfabbro@adelaide.edu.au
Abstract:
Although prevalence studies consistently indicate that many thousands of Australians experience gambling-related problems, only a relatively small proportion of these people seek professional help. This study examines the principal motivations for, and impediments to, help-seeking in a sample of 77 problem gamblers recruited from agencies and the general community. The results indicated that profession help-seeking is predominantly crisis-driven rather than being motived by a gradual recognition of problematic behaviour. Shame, denial and social factors were identified as the most significant barriers to change rather than a lack of knowledge, or dislike of, treatment agencies. The value of early interventions including the screening of gamblers in routine medical consultations and partner support strategies is discussed.
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