Factors Influencing Family-function in Families of Pathological Gamblers

Abstract

Purpose: This study was done to identify levels of family function, codependency, depression, and self-esteem, and to identify factors influencing family function in families pathological gamblers. Methods: A cross-sectional survey design was used. Participants in the survey for this study were 103 families pathological gamblers from gambling counseling G center in Gyung-gi province. Data were collected from January to December, 2012 using self-report structured questionnaires. Data were analyzed using t-test, ANOVA, Pearson correlation coefficients and Stepwise regression with SAS program. Results: Codependency, depression, self-esteem and family function showed strong correlations (p<.001). Family status, type of housing tenure, codependency and self-esteem were identified as factors influencing family function in families pathological gamblers. These variables explained 27% of family function. Conclusion: Findings of this study suggest that these variables should be considered in developing nursing intervention programs to improve family function in families pathological gamblers.