Published late last week, the reports, both commissioned by GambleAware, considered the links between gambling harms and neurodiversity. The charity worked with IFF Research on the research.
Dr Amy Sweet, honorary research fellow at the University of Bristol and Dr Tim Morris, senior research fellow at UCL and the University of Bristol, also worked on the reports.
Both reports suggested neurodivergent people are more likely to experience harm from gambling, including using it as a “coping mechanism”. This is despite them not gambling more than those who are neurotypical.
It is estimated one in seven people in Britain have some form of neurodivergence. This can include conditions such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), dyslexia, dyspraxia or dyscalcula.
Gambling a “coping” mechanism for neurodiverse people
The first study looked at the available support for neurodivergent people in gambling, as it found a “complex” relationship between neurodivergence, gambling behaviours and gambling harms.
It found people with autism or ADHD said they were particularly vulnerable to gambling harms due to their experiences with impulsive decision-making and difficulties in managing finances.
Researchers also highlighted how some neurodiverse people use gambling as a “coping mechanism”. It said the activity offers temporary relief from feelings of social isolation, marginalisation, or unmet needs for excitement or mental stimulation. This can then lead to harm.
“These coping strategies often come with significant consequences,” the report said. “These include including financial strain, relationship breakdowns and setbacks in employment or education.”
It said treatment approaches should be customised to account for traits such as attention difficulties and impulsivity. There was also a call for early intervention, with many people not seeking help until experiencing harm.
In addition, researchers highlighted how “barriers” may prevent people from accessing help and called for simplified processes.
“Gambling support services should simplify the intake process, provide clear instructions and offer consistent reminders to maintain engagement,” the report said. “Additionally, peer support networks can help bridge the gap, offering a relatable, non-judgmental space for people who may be hesitant to engage with formal treatment.”
Concerns over knowledge gap
The second report looked at how the intersection of gambling harm and neurodivergence is currently “under-researched”. As such, its conclusions focused more on what can be done to shed more light on the issue.
“This research demonstrates how nuanced the relationship between neurodiversity and gambling is,” the report said. “It also shows how little is known about neurodivergent people’s experiences of gambling, gambling harm and gambling treatment and support.
“Knowledge gaps identified present great opportunities for researchers, service designers and deliverers to add to the existing evidence base in future work.”
There are also suggestions for more research to help understand the links between gambling harms and neurodiversity. This includes whether age, gender or ethnicity have any impact on a player’s activities.
“Vital” for people to know the risks of gambling
Commenting on the two new reports, Haroon Chowdry, director of evidence and insights at GambleAware, said he hopes the research can help shape future policy on treatment and protection.
“It is vital that people know the risks associated with gambling,” Chowdry said. “This is why we are urging the introduction of better signposting and mandatory health warnings on gambling advertising, so people know where to go for help and support.
“We hope the important findings from this research will also be used to inform the future gambling harms prevention and treatment systems, to ensure they are effective for everyone.”
Clare Palmer, associate director at IFF Research, also picked up on the findings. She confirms IFF will support the next stage of research. This involves co-designing tools with Ara Recovery 4 All, a provider of gambling harm treatment, and its advisory panel of professional and lived experience experts.
“This will ensure the research has a meaningful impact on the future delivery of gambling support services for neurodivergent people,” she said.
Original article: https://igamingbusiness.com/sustainable-gambling/responsible-gambling/gambleaware-research-gambling-harms-neurodivergence/
