Problem gambling and family violence: Family member reports of prevalence, family impacts and family coping

Abstract

This study explores the co-occurrence of family violence and problem gambling among family members in Australia. Screening 120 help-seeking family members of problem gamblers, the findings reveal that 52.5% reported experiencing some form of family violence in the past year. Notably, 20% of participants reported victimisation, 10.8% reported perpetration, and 21.6% reported both. Female participants were more likely to be victims, while males were more likely to report no violence. The majority of interviewed participants suggested that gambling often preceded family violence. The article highlights the complex interplay between anger, mistrust, and gambling losses, suggesting critical implications for clinical interventions and service provision.