Characteristics and Gender Differences Among Self-Excluded Casino Problem Gamblers: Missouri Data (original) (raw)

The present study explores gender-related differences in the demographic and gambling-related characteristics of 2670 problem gamblers participating in a state-administered (Missouri) casino self-exclusion program between 2001 and 2003. Female (n=1298, 48.4%) and male (n=1372, 51.1%) participants ranged in age from 21 to 84 years. Gender-related differences were noted among demographic variables, patterns of gambling behavior, reasons for self-exclusion, and involvement in self-help, counseling, and bankruptcy services. Female self-excluders were more likely than males to be older at time of application, African American, and either retired, unemployed or otherwise outside the traditional workforce. In addition, female self-excluders were more likely to report a later age of gambling onset, a shorter period between onset and self-exclusion, a preference for non-strategic forms of gambling and prior bankruptcy. The main predictors for female participation in self-exclusion included a desire to gain control and prevent suicide and referral by a counselor. The desire to save the marriage was a motivating factor for all participants. Findings suggest that the most efficacious treatment strategies with this group will include family systemic therapy and financial management in addition to pharmaco-treatment and culturally-sensitive individual therapy.

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Acknowledgments

The authors wish to thank Kevin Mullally, Melissa Stephens, and Annette Turner of the Missouri Gaming Commission and Jenna Zimmerman of the University of Missouri-St. Louis for their invaluable assistance and support of this project.

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Authors and Affiliations

1. University of Missouri-St. Louis, St. Louis, USA
   Lia Nower
2. University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
   Alex Blaszczynski
3. School of Social Welfare, University of Missouri-St. Louis, 8001 Natural Bridge Road-Lucas Hall 590, St. Louis, MO, 63121, USA
   Lia Nower

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1. Lia Nower
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2. Alex Blaszczynski
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Correspondence toLia Nower.

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Nower, L., Blaszczynski, A. Characteristics and Gender Differences Among Self-Excluded Casino Problem Gamblers: Missouri Data.J Gambl Stud 22, 81–99 (2006). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10899-005-9004-2

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• Published: 22 December 2005
• Issue Date: March 2006
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10899-005-9004-2

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