Children of problem gamblers: need for support, utilization of services and prevention policy

Abstract Background Problem gambling is an emerging European public health concern. In Germany, 25 to 33% of the approximately 229,000 problem gamblers are also fathers or mothers minor children. This suggests a high number children exposed parental gambling, who high-risk group for development addictive disorders and other psychological, somatic, social problems. Unlike in parents with substance-related addiction, effects under-researched often remain underserved. this study first its kind explore service needs use services targeted group. Methods Survey research explorative mixed-methods design was conducted non-representative sample (n = 67) adolescent adult Germany. Data on need support assessed structured interviews analysed using descriptive statistics qualitative content analysis. Results Preliminary findings 67, 56,7% male, mean age 28 years (SD 6.966)) show great many areas life (e.g. family, substance behaviour, mental health) low utilization services. Exploring retrospectively, primarily (1) professional support, especially systemic / family-based (2) exchange via trustee, (3) easily accessible services, (4) desire psychoeducation transparency, (5) distancing from parent, (6) willingness ability maintain abstinence, were considered helpful. Conclusions Children but Further practical implementation targeted, early, accessible, sustainable transgenerational prevention necessary measure delivery care (children from) families affected by gambling. Key messages Retrospectively, express transparency psychoeducation. Next universal prevention, selective efforts targeting needed reach at risk.