There is little research on stigma related to gambling and gambling harms. This scoping review examines stigma as it relates to gambling and gambling harms. the aim of the review is to
- provide a critical analysis of current research and how gambling and related harms create stigma;
- describe relationships between gambling and gambling harms;
- examine stigma as a barrier to support;
- and provide recommendations to reduce stigma related to gambling and its harms.
The review assessed research on stigma, discrimination, and gambling from 54 studies and nine review papers across 19 countries. The review found that a significant amount of published research on gambling harms used stigmatizing language. This includes 'problem gambler' and 'gambling addict.' Other findings from the review include:
- Labelling and stereotyping were common as well as linking gambling with other negative stereotypes
- Stigmatizing terms can lead to narratives of the individual experiencing harms as the 'problem' rather than having a problem or illness
- Support services that include people with lived experience may discourage feelings of stigma
Recommendations from the report include:
- When designing a campaign do not shame or blame people who gamble
- Use first-person language in research and campaigns to highlight that gambling disorder is a mental disorder
- Involve people with lived experience in training and research