Do people with problem and non-problem gambling differ on financial literacy? A mixed methods study in Hong Kong

This sequential explanatory mixed methods research study explored differences in financial literacy between people with problem gambling (PG) and non-problem gambling (non-PG), focusing on three subdimensions: actual financial knowledge, perceived financial knowledge, and financial attitude. The influence of financial socialization was also accounted for in the survey and interviews. The research included a survey of 234 help-seeking gamblers and follow-up in-depth interviews with 12 gamblers and five significant others. Hierarchical binomial logistic regression indicated that perceived financial knowledge was the key factor distinguishing people with PG and non-PG. Higher perceived financial knowledge was correlated with lower odds of being classified as a person with PG, even when accounting for individual and environmental factors. The interviews provided additional insights, showing that actual financial knowledge and financial socialization from significant others did not significantly impact PG severity or involvement. Gamblers with high perceived financial knowledge were more likely to make sound financial decisions. Furthermore, people with non-PG exhibited different financial attitudes than their counterparts, being more open to exploring diverse financial products rather than relying solely on gambling activities. These findings suggest that enhancing perceived financial knowledge could be a valuable focus for future research and interventions aimed at reducing problem gambling.