Childhood trauma associated with gambling harms in later life
Certain adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are associated with an increased risk of problem gambling, with childhood sexual abuse associated with a two- to threefold higher risk of moderate gambling problems by young adulthood, according to new University of Bristol-led research. The findings are published in Addictive Behaviours Reports.
A University of Bristol-led study reveals a link between certain adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and later life gambling problems. The research, published in Addictive Behaviours Reports, analyzed data from 3,794 participants in the Bristol Children of the 90s study. Childhood sexual abuse showed the strongest association with moderate gambling problems by young adulthood, with consistent associations observed across three time points (ages 17, 20, and 24).
The study found that 5% of participants reported sexual abuse, while parental mental health problems or suicide was the most frequently reported ACE, affecting 43% of participants. Other ACEs, such as bullying, parental conviction, and parental separation, showed less consistent associations. Dr. Annie Herbert, senior author of the study, emphasized the importance of considering childhood trauma when understanding gambling harms.
Dr. Raffaello Rossi highlighted opportunities to support gambling treatment providers in recognizing and addressing the links between childhood trauma and gambling harms. The study strengthens the evidence for a connection between childhood trauma and gambling problems, underscoring the importance of awareness for treatment journeys.
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