The Impact of Gambling on People with ADHD and Autism: Research and Risks

Key Research Findings

Neurodivergent individuals, such as those with ADHD and autism, are twice as likely to experience gambling-related problems compared to neurotypical players. This is supported by research from IFF Research and the University of Bristol, as well as data from the longitudinal ALSPAC study.

Key Reasons for Increased Risk:

• Impulsivity – an increased tendency to make quick decisions without evaluating consequences.
• Difficulty in Risk Assessment – challenges in predicting potential losses and winnings.
• Co-occurring Mental Health Conditions – anxiety, depression, and other disorders may exacerbate gambling tendencies.

Limitations of Existing Support Methods

Most therapeutic programs and gambling addiction prevention methods are designed for neurotypical individuals. As a result:

• There is a lack of sufficient evidence on the effectiveness of current methods for neurodivergent individuals.
• Existing programs rarely consider the behavioral and cognitive characteristics of people with ADHD and autism.
• Personalized approaches tailored to the specific needs of such individuals are not offered.

Possible Solutions and Recommendations

Researchers suggest the following measures to improve support for neurodivergent individuals:

1. Development of adapted therapeutic methods, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and approaches that support patient autonomy.
2. Modification of communication in prevention programs – creating informational materials that consider the perception characteristics of neurodivergent individuals.
3. Training for specialists working with addicted gamblers, with a focus on understanding neurodiversity.
4. Additional research aimed at studying the impact of gambling on individuals with dyslexia, dyspraxia, and dyscalculia.
5. Considering the intersection of neurodiversity with gender, ethnicity, and income level to gain a deeper understanding of the problem and propose more effective solutions.

Conclusion

People with ADHD and autism face an increased risk of gambling-related problems. However, existing support methods are insufficiently effective. Addressing this issue requires a personalized approach, adapted therapeutic methods, and further research in this field.