Gambling problems and health functioning in individuals receiving disability

Benjamin J. Morasco, Nancy M. Petry

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

37 Scopus citations

Abstract

Purpose. This study evaluated the rates and correlates of disordered gambling, with a focus on gambling behavior among participants receiving disability. Method. The sample consisted of 723 patients seeking free or reduced-cost dental care. Participants completed the South Oaks Gambling Screen (SOGS), Short Form-12 Health Survey, Second Edition (SF-12v2), and questions assessing demographic characteristics and frequency and intensity of current gambling behaviors. Results. Results indicate a significantly higher prevalence of disordered gambling among participants receiving disability (26%) than in the remainder of the sample (14%; p < 0.001). Of the 135 individuals receiving disability, disordered gambling was associated with decreased physical and mental health functioning. Conclusions. These data indicate that individuals receiving disability have high rates of disordered gambling, and gambling behavior in this population is associated with poorer health functioning. Results suggest that disordered gamblers who receive disability have an increased need for interventions to reduce gambling and associated problems.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)619-623
Number of pages5
JournalDisability and Rehabilitation
Volume28
Issue number10
DOIs
StatePublished - May 2006

Keywords

  • Disability
  • Disordered gambling
  • Health functioning
  • Mental health
  • Pathological gambling

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Rehabilitation

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