title: Motivators for change and barriers to help-seeking in Australian problem gamblers.
abstract: Although prevalence studies consistently indicate that many thousands of Australians experience gambling-related problems, only a relatively small proportion of these people seek professional help. This study examines the principal motivations for, and impediments to, help-seeking in a sample of 77 problem gamblers recruited from agencies and the general community. The results indicated that profession help-seeking is predominantly crisis-driven rather than being motived by a gradual recognition of problematic behaviour. Shame, denial and social factors were identified as the most significant barriers to change rather than a lack of knowledge, or dislike of, treatment agencies. The value of early interventions including the screening of gamblers in routine medical consultations and partner support strategies is discussed.
authors.affiliation: Department of Psychology, University of Adelaide, Nth. Tce., 5005, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia. paul.delfabbro@adelaide.edu.au
authors.forename: Lyn
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Evans
authors.forename: Paul H
authors.initials: PH
authors.lastname: Delfabbro
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D016739:Behavior, Addictive / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D005715:Gambling / Q000523:psychology*; D006801:Humans; D033182:Intention; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010342:Patient Acceptance of Health Care / Q000523:psychology*; D020377:Self Efficacy; D012931:Social Environment; D013021:South Australia; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires