title: Characteristics and gender differences among self-excluded casino problem gamblers: Missouri data.
abstract: The present study explores gender-related differences in the demographic and gambling-related characteristics of 2670 problem gamblers participating in a state-administered (Missouri) casino self-exclusion program between 2001 and 2003. Female (n=1298, 48.4%) and male (n=1372, 51.1%) participants ranged in age from 21 to 84 years. Gender-related differences were noted among demographic variables, patterns of gambling behavior, reasons for self-exclusion, and involvement in self-help, counseling, and bankruptcy services. Female self-excluders were more likely than males to be older at time of application, African American, and either retired, unemployed or otherwise outside the traditional workforce. In addition, female self-excluders were more likely to report a later age of gambling onset, a shorter period between onset and self-exclusion, a preference for non-strategic forms of gambling and prior bankruptcy. The main predictors for female participation in self-exclusion included a desire to gain control and prevent suicide and referral by a counselor. The desire to save the marriage was a motivating factor for all participants. Findings suggest that the most efficacious treatment strategies with this group will include family systemic therapy and financial management in addition to pharmaco-treatment and culturally-sensitive individual therapy.
authors.affiliation: School of Social Welfare, University of Missouri-St. Louis, 8001 Natural Bridge Road-Lucas Hall 590, St. Louis, MO 63121, USA. knowdice@umsl.edu
authors.forename: Lia
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Nower
authors.forename: Alex
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Blaszczynski
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D017677:Age Distribution; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D032763:Behavior Control / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence* / Q000379:methods* / Q000523:psychology; D016739:Behavior, Addictive / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000523:psychology; D003068:Coercion; D005260:Female; D005715:Gambling / Q000523:psychology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D008923:Missouri / Q000453:epidemiology; D010552:Personality Assessment / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D020377:Self Efficacy; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D017678:Sex Distribution