Perceived stigma and self-stigma of problem gambling: perspectives of people with gambling problems

Figures & data

Table 1. Age and sex of participants.

Age	Male	Female
18–24	6	0
25–34	9	4
35–44	7	0
45–54	3	5
55–64	3	4
65 or over	0	3
Total	28	16

Table 2. Themes and sub-themes in results.

Perceived public stigma: stigmatizing beliefs held by participants	Coping with stigma
• Perceived origin of problem gambling and other dimensions • Labelling and stereotypes • Separating through social distancing • Emotional reactions • Devaluation and discrimination	• Secrecy • Delaying disclosure • Reluctant to self-acknowledge their problem • Diminished self-efficacy • Courtesy stigma • Relapse appeared to worsen self-stigma • Cognitive distancing
Self-stigma: internalization of stigmatizing beliefs by participants • Lowered self-esteem • Physical health problems • Eroded self-efficacy • Shame	Influence of stigma on seeking formal help for problem gambling • Self-exclusion • Peer support groups • Formal counselling • Online and telephone support