Problem Gambler Help-Seeker Types: Barriers to Treatment and Help-Seeking Processes

Abstract

Understanding of the barriers to seeking help and treatment for gambling problems remains limited. Research has thus far focused on either the barriers or motivators for help-seeking. This interview-based study investigated both barriers to treatment and the help-seeking process. Three help-seekers types were identified: individualistic, multi-problematic and family-centric. Individualistic help-seekers emphasise psychological reasons as the major barriers to treatment but also see themselves as key actors in the help-seeking process. In this group, a rock bottom experience characterises the final stage of converting intention into action in help-seeking. Multi-problematic gamblers have other major problems apart from gambling, and they may feel that gambling, even if problematic, has a positive impact on their lives and hence lack motivation to change. For them, the need for change comes from improvement in their life situation. For family-centric help-seekers, the reasons for not seeking help are linked to individuals or are treatment- or cultural-related. In their help-seeking process, family members play a crucial role. These results indicate that, to offer more effective help, we should recognise dissimilarities in problem gamblers’ experiences of barriers to treatment and in the phases of their help-seeking process.