Why Adolescent Problem Gamblers Do Not Seek Treatment

Abstract

ABSTRACT Prevalence studies indicate that approximately 40% of adolescents participate in regular gambling with rates of problem gambling up to four times greater than that found in adult populations. However, it appears that few adolescents actually seek treatment for such problems. The purpose of this study was to explore potential reasons why adolescents fail to seek treatment for gambling problems. A semi-structured interview that included diagnostic criteria for pathological gambling was administered to a sample of 265 adolescent school students. Only one of seven problem gamblers recognized his problem and none have sought help. From a youth perspective, it is clear that gambling does not constitute or is not perceived to represent a major problem in their daily routine. The reason that adolescents do not perceive gambling to be a problem may be linked to the absence of any major adverse consequences stemming from their gambling activities. These results indicate that efforts should be directed toward a primary prevention approach in reducing the impact of gambling problems.