Problem Gambling Severity, Psychosocial Welfare, and Intimate Partner Violence: Evidence From a Population Health...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Sociology
• Criminology

Background:

• Gambling severity is associated with social and health harms, including intimate partner violence (IPV).
• Understanding the relationship between gambling severity and IPV is crucial for public health interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the associations between gambling severity and self-reported physical and psychological intimate partner violence (IPV).
• To analyze these associations using nationally representative health survey data from Finland.

Main Methods:

• Utilized data from 28,153 Finnish adults (2022-2023).
• Assessed gambling severity using the Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI).
• Employed complex samples logistic regression, controlling for demographic, socioeconomic, mental health, and substance use factors.

Main Results:

• Prevalence of violent experiences increased with higher gambling severity.
• Women, younger individuals, and past-year gamblers reported more violence.
• Higher PGSI scores were associated with increased likelihood of experiencing psychological violence from a spouse.

Conclusions:

• Gambling severity is a significant risk factor for intimate partner violence (IPV).
• Integrated approaches addressing gambling, mental health, and violence are essential for effective prevention and support.
• Findings emphasize the need for tailored interventions considering gender and age differences.