Subtypes of Problem Gamblers, Sociocultural Factors, and Availability of Gambling

Abstract

Finnish treatment-seeking gamblers were examined in light of predominant problem gambler subtype models. “Psy science” oriented problem gambler subtypes were found to be considerably influenced by gambling cultures and treatment traditions in the countries from which the mainstream problem gambler research originates. Thus, models that emphasize the psychopathology of the individual might cause some friction when applied to countries like Finland with a quite particular gambling culture and addiction treatment system that traditionally functions on a social work basis. It is suggested that specialists helping problem gamblers should acquire local knowledge with which to complete psychiatrically oriented scientific knowledge.

KEYWORDS:

• availability
• gambling cultures
• local knowledge
• problem gambler subtypes
• treatment of problem gamblers

FUNDING

This study received support from the Finnish Foundation for Alcohol Studies.

Notes

¹ Problem gambling is used in this article to refer to all problematic levels of gambling. The definition “speaks about consequences to the individual’s functioning, impact on the family and community, and level of harm caused by the gambling behavior” (Kourgiantakis, Saint-Jacques, & Tremblay, 2013, p. 355).

² In the DSM–5 classification (American Psychiatric Association, 2013) gambling disorder was moved from its category of impulse-control disorders not elsewhere classified to substance-related and addictive disorders. Gambling disorder remains currently the only nonsubstance condition—“behavioral addiction”—that is listed as an addiction in the DSM–5, although also Internet gaming disorder (IGD) was discussed (see also Ainamo, & Tammi 2013; Straussner, 2013).

³ A-clinics are outpatient units for people suffering from substance misuse or other addictive behavior. The theory base for the interventions is varied depending on the therapist’s training and the needs of the client.

⁴ The internationally adopted idea to treat problem gambling expressly with antidepressants (e.g., Grant & Kim, 2006) was not espoused in the examined A-clinics.

Additional information

Funding

This study received support from the Finnish Foundation for Alcohol Studies.