Empowering Professionals: A Design Study to Develop Guidelines to Identify and Support At-Risk and Problem Gamblers
Since the nationwide legalization of online gambling, concerns have arisen about a possible increase in gambling addiction among vulnerable groups, including young people, older adults, and individuals with a low socioeconomic status. Research was needed into interventions aimed at early detection of problems, indicated prevention, and referral to treatment—particularly among vulnerable groups.
Objective
The aim of the study was to develop a practical guide containing information, advice, and tools to help identify and discuss problem gambling among vulnerable groups, and to refer individuals showing signs of problem gambling to appropriate support. The guidelines are intended for professionals in secondary vocational education, social (community) work, and debt counseling services.
Approach
The guidelines were developed through desk research, interviews, a design workshop, focus groups, and a field test.
A strong team of prevention and gambling experts, researchers, and an expert by experience carried out the project. In the first year, we conducted a literature review and held interviews and focus groups with prevention workers and other professionals, as well as with people experiencing gambling problems. They shared their experiences and needs regarding the process of identifying gambling problems and accessing (appropriate) care. These building blocks were further developed into the final practical guide.
Results
The knowledge gained provided key starting points for drafting the guide and ensures that it is applicable and useful for professionals in practice. Among other things, we learned that professionals need not only practical tools for working with individuals with gambling problems, but also guidance on how to approach and support their relatives.
More information
In this interview, the project staff describe the practical guide they developed. This article is published in Dutch.