Development and Validation of the Gambling Impact Scale for Families

This study aimed to develop the Gambling Impact Scale (GIS), an instrument designed to assess the multidimensional burden experienced by family members affected by gambling problems, and to examine its validity and reliability. A web-based survey was conducted with two independent samples of affected family members. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was performed on Sample 1 (n = 162) using maximum likelihood estimation and promax rotation to refine an initial item pool. A confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was conducted on a separate and larger sample (Sample 2, n = 416) to validate the factor structure. The analyses supported a five-factor structure comprising 24 items: Psychological Distress, Economic Damage, Communication Problems and Distrust, Denial and Aggressive Attitudes from the Person with Gambling Problems, and Aggressive Feelings and Attitudes Toward the Person with Gambling Problems. All subscales demonstrated high internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.83-0.93). The CFA results indicated an acceptable model fit (CFI = 0.938, RMSEA = 0.079). Construct validity was examined through associations with a codependency scale completed by family members, as well as by comparing GIS scores according to participation in family support groups. Significant group differences were observed, with participants who had engaged in support for one year or longer reporting lower levels of family burden. The scale offers a comprehensive assessment of the emotional, financial, and relational burdens experienced by affected family members. It may serve as a useful tool for identifying support needs and evaluating outcomes of family-based interventions. Future research should examine its responsiveness to changes over time and consider broader applications across different cultural contexts.