A research review of aspects of problem gambling

Abstract

In May 2004, the Gambling Research Centre, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand was commissioned to prepare a critical review of research on aspects of problem gambling to enable the Responsibility in Gambling Trust (the Trust) to clarify its understanding of these issues and establish priorities for future research. The aspects of problem gambling that the Reviewing Team was asked to examine included: * Research on the development of, and risk factors for, problem gambling * Research on intervention options for the treatment of problem gambling and the effectiveness of these options * Research on alternative approaches to public education and awareness raising about the risks of gambling and assessment of their effectiveness We were also asked to indicate areas where the existing research provides a secure knowledge base, sufficient to inform policy and professional practice, and where understanding is thin or absent. Finally we were asked to make specific recommendations for future research projects on gambling problems in the U.K. During the course of the review, the Trust requested additional information from the Reviewing Team on several topics. For the most part, this additional information is included in the relevant sections of the literature review. The role of research and its contribution to policy, practitioner contact with problem gamblers and relevant industry practice are addressed individually for each of the original three areas of concern. Issues related to measurement and monitoring of gambling problems are dealt with separately. Another separate section addresses potential areas for collaboration with non-specialist organisations in the U.K. Additionally, the Reviewing Team’s comments relating to recommendations in two other U.K. reports in regard to legislation and regulatory reforms in the gambling area are dealt with towards the end of this review