Differences in Perceived and Experienced Stigma Between Problematic Gamblers and Non-gamblers in a General Population...

Area of Science:

• Social Sciences
• Psychology
• Public Health

Background:

• Gambling is a significant public health issue globally, with Italy having high per capita spending.
• Stigma surrounding gambling can be a major barrier to individuals seeking help for problematic gambling behaviors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare social and self-perceived stigma between problematic and non-problematic gamblers.
• To investigate the relationship between stigma, socio-demographic variables, and help-seeking behaviors in gamblers.
• To inform targeted interventions aimed at reducing gambling-related stigma.

Main Methods:

• A sample of approximately 700 individuals was recruited via street interviews in Italy.
• Participants were screened into non-problematic/non-gambler and problematic gambler groups using self-report questionnaires.
• Social and self-perceived stigma were measured using validated self-report instruments.

Main Results:

• Problematic gamblers reported significantly higher levels of both social and self-perceived stigma compared to non-problematic gamblers.
• A positive correlation was found between social stigma and self-perceived stigma.
• Higher levels of stigma were associated with lower intentions to seek help for gambling problems.

Conclusions:

• Gambling-related stigma is a significant issue in Italy, particularly affecting problematic gamblers.
• The findings underscore the importance of addressing stigma to facilitate help-seeking among individuals with gambling problems.
• Intervention strategies should focus on reducing both perceived and experienced stigma to improve access to support services.