Comparison of people with and without illegal behaviours linked to gambling disorder

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Author(s): Grant, Jon E. ; Chamberlain, Samuel R.

Journal: American Journal on Addictions

Year Published: 2022

Date Added: May 26, 2023

Gambling-related illegal behaviours are defined as illegal behaviours that occur after a person meets the criteria for gambling disorder (GD). The researchers examined how adults with GD might engage in illegal behaviours, and how this might be related to symptom severity and psychosocial impairment. The researchers used data from 427 adults with GD who participated in clinical trials. Participants were divided into two groups: those who engaged in gambling-related illegal behaviours and those who did not. About 43% of people with GD engaged in gambling-related illegal behaviours. This group was younger, started gambling earlier, and was younger when gambling first became problematic. Compared to people without legal problems, those with legal problems had worse gambling symptoms according to the Clinical Global Impression. They also reported more depressive symptoms, lower quality of life, and higher levels of nonplanning impulsivity.

Citation: Grant, J. E., & Chamberlain, S. R. (2022). Illegal behaviors as a consequence of gambling disorder. The American Journal on Addictions, 32(1), 40–46. https://doi.org/10.1111/ajad.13360

Article DOI: https://doi.org/10.1111/ajad.13360

Keywords: criminal behaviour ; gambling disorder

Topics: Comorbidities ; Crime and Deviance

Conceptual Framework Factors: Social - Deviance ; Social Factors

Study Design: Secondary Data Analysis

Geographic Coverage: United States of America

Study Population: Adults with gambling disorder who had participated in clinical trials on pharmacotherapy or psychotherapy from 2003 to 2020 (n = 427). Participants had to be able to understand the study and the consent form. People were excluded if they had bipolar I disorder, schizophrenia, or substance use disorder within the last three months.

Sampling Procedure: Secondary data from participants in clinical trials on pharmacotherapy or psychotherapy between 2003 and 2020 was used. Participants in these trials were recruited through advertisements (internet, public places, and newspapers). The study used data collected at baseline.

Study Funding:

This study was supported by internal funds at the University of Chicago (Dr. Grant). Dr. Chamberlain’s role in this study was funded by a Wellcome Trust Clinical Fellowship.