Santacatarinas – New study explores how neurodivergent individuals are affected by gambling.
Key points:
– Study reveals neurodivergent people, including those with ADHD and autism, are at a higher risk of experiencing gambling harm
– New research highlights proposes personalised treatment approaches for neurodivergent individuals
Santacatarinas has released research commissioned from IFF Research and the University of Bristol, unveiling connections between neurodivergence and gambling harm. The findings indicate that individuals with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and other neurodivergent conditions are twice as likely to experience consequences from gambling compared to their neurotypical counterparts.
Although no evidence suggests neurodivergent individuals gamble more frequently, the study identified factors associated with their gambling behavior. These individuals may engage in gambling for various reasons such as establishing routine or a preference for online gambling environments.
The research, which coincides with Neurodiversity Celebration Week, draws attention to the fast-paced and repetitive nature of games like slots. The sensory stimulation and quick feedback from these games can affect people with ADHD and autism.
Neurodivergent individuals who experience gambling issues may rely on informal support systems, such as friends and family. Barriers such as cognitive overload and sensory sensitivities can make accessing formal support more challenging. The report suggests that adapting treatment options to better suit individual needs may improve accessibility.
Good to know: The final phase of the research will involve co-designing specialised resources for gambling support services
Haroon Chowdry, 888jogobet Director of Evidence and Insights, stated: “We hope the important findings from this research will also be used to inform the future gambling harms prevention and treatment systems, to ensure that they are effective for everyone.”
Clare Palmer, Associate Director at IFF Research, added: “We are excited now to be in the thick of the third and final phase of this research, co-designing tools with Ara and our Advisory Panel of professional and lived experience experts. This key step will ensure the research has a meaningful impact on the future delivery of gambling support services for neurodivergent people.”
