Gambling addiction and the impact on significant others: A systematic review.
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| Title: | Gambling addiction and the impact on significant others: A systematic review. |
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| Authors: | Pappa, Eleftheria (AUTHOR), Vierou, Anna Maria (AUTHOR), Krania, Eirini (AUTHOR), Dais, Dimitris (AUTHOR) |
| Source: | American Journal of Family Therapy. Mar2026, Vol. 54 Issue 2, p222-233. 12p. |
| Subjects: | Compulsive behavior, Psychological distress, Significant others, Spouses, Gambling, Psychological well-being, Descriptive statistics, Uncertainty, Family relations, Systematic reviews, MEDLINE, Financial stress, Family structure, Interpersonal relations, Online information services, Psychosocial factors, ERIC (Information retrieval system) |
| Abstract: | Gambling addiction is a worrying social phenomenon as it has far-reaching effects not only on various aspects of a pathological gambler's life, but also on mental health, financial stability, and the dynamics of the whole family. While the impact of problem on individuals is often highlighted, the impact on families often receives insufficient attention. To address this gap, a thorough literature review was conducted, which identified and analyzed 21 empirical studies that specifically examine the impact of problem on family structures and relationships as experienced by significant others. The findings of the study indicate that problem is associated with numerous detrimental effects on both families and overall family functioning. These adverse effects can manifest in various ways, including increased conflict within the family, emotional distress among family members, financial strain, and even the potential for a breakdown in communication and trust. Children of addicts also seem to experience significant negative consequences with the onset of emotional difficulties and high-risk behaviors. Given the findings as they emerge, it becomes apparent that understanding the interaction between problem and family life is crucial to developing effective interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
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| Database: | Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Collection |
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| Abstract: | Gambling addiction is a worrying social phenomenon as it has far-reaching effects not only on various aspects of a pathological gambler's life, but also on mental health, financial stability, and the dynamics of the whole family. While the impact of problem on individuals is often highlighted, the impact on families often receives insufficient attention. To address this gap, a thorough literature review was conducted, which identified and analyzed 21 empirical studies that specifically examine the impact of problem on family structures and relationships as experienced by significant others. The findings of the study indicate that problem is associated with numerous detrimental effects on both families and overall family functioning. These adverse effects can manifest in various ways, including increased conflict within the family, emotional distress among family members, financial strain, and even the potential for a breakdown in communication and trust. Children of addicts also seem to experience significant negative consequences with the onset of emotional difficulties and high-risk behaviors. Given the findings as they emerge, it becomes apparent that understanding the interaction between problem and family life is crucial to developing effective interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
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| ISSN: | 01926187 |
| DOI: | 10.1080/01926187.2025.2541965 |
