scholarly journals Young people who purchase loot boxes are more likely to have gambling problems: An online survey of adolescents and young adults living in NSW Australia

2021 ◽  
Vol 10 (1) ◽  
pp. 35-41
Author(s):  
Matthew Rockloff ◽  
Alex M.T. Russell ◽  
Nancy Greer ◽  
Lisa Lole ◽  
Nerilee Hing ◽  
...  

AbstractBackground and aimsLoot boxes are a common feature in video games where players win, buy or are gifted a virtual box or other container that is unwrapped to reveal virtual items of value, such as skins, weapons, in-game currency or special abilities. The current study aimed to relate the use of loot boxes to gambling problems and harm.MethodsAn online survey was conducted with 1,954 adolescents and young adults from NSW Australia, 59.9% female (aged 12–24), recruited by online panel aggregator, Qualtrics.ResultsBuying and selling loot boxes was associated with higher 12-month gambling frequency and gambling problems in young adults, aged 18–24 (Problem Gambling Severity Index). Young adults who bought loot boxes additionally had more gambling-related harms (Short Gambling Harms Screen). Young women, aged 18–24, who opened, bought and/or sold loot boxes spent more money in the last 12 months on gambling. In adolescents, aged 12–17, buying loot boxes was similarly associated with gambling problems (DSM-IV-MR-J). Furthermore, adolescent girls who bought and/or sold loot boxes viewed gambling more positively than other girls (Attitudes Towards Gambling Scale). There was no evidence, however, that longer-term experience in opening or purchasing loot boxes, a differentiating feature of the survey, is associated with current gambling problems.Discussion and conclusionsThis study suggests that loot boxes may be attractive to people who are already predisposed to engage in other gambling, and females who use loot boxes may have unique vulnerabilities to gambling problems that could be explored in future research.

2017 ◽  
Vol 33 (2) ◽  
pp. 123-128 ◽  
Author(s):  
Anne van Alebeek ◽  
Paul T. van der Heijden ◽  
Christel Hessels ◽  
Melissa S.Y. Thong ◽  
Marcel van Aken

Abstract. One of the most common personality disorders among adolescents and young adults is the Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). The objective of current study was to assess three questionnaires that can reliably screen for BPD in adolescents and young adults (N = 53): the McLean Screening Instrument for BPD (MSI-BPD; Zanarini et al., 2003 ), the Personality Diagnostic Questionnaire 4th edition – BPD scale (PDQ-4 BPD; Hyler, 1994 ), and the SCID-II Patient Questionnaire – BPD scale (SCID-II-PQ BPD). The nine criteria of BPD according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-IV (DSM-IV; APA, 1994 ) were measured with the Structural Clinical Interview for DSM-IV Axis II disorders – BPD scale (SCID-II; First, Spitzer, Gibbon, Williams, & Benjamin, 1995 ). Correlations between the questionnaires and the SCID-II were calculated. In addition, the sensitivity and specificity of the questionnaires were tested. All instruments predicted the BPD diagnosis equally well.


2015 ◽  
Vol 207 (4) ◽  
pp. 328-333 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lisa Jones ◽  
Alice Metcalf ◽  
Katherine Gordon-Smith ◽  
Liz Forty ◽  
Amy Perry ◽  
...  

BackgroundNorth American studies show bipolar disorder is associated with elevated rates of problem gambling; however, little is known about rates in the different presentations of bipolar illness.AimsTo determine the prevalence and distribution of problem gambling in people with bipolar disorder in the UK.MethodThe Problem Gambling Severity Index was used to measure gambling problems in 635 participants with bipolar disorder.ResultsModerate to severe gambling problems were four times higher in people with bipolar disorder than in the general population, and were associated with type 2 disorder (OR = 1.74, P = 0.036), history of suicidal ideation or attempt (OR = 3.44, P = 0.02) and rapid cycling (OR = 2.63, P = 0.008).ConclusionsApproximately 1 in 10 patients with bipolar disorder may be at moderate to severe risk of problem gambling, possibly associated with suicidal behaviour and a rapid cycling course. Elevated rates of gambling problems in type 2 disorder highlight the probable significance of modest but unstable mood disturbance in the development and maintenance of such problems.


SLEEP ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 44 (Supplement_2) ◽  
pp. A150-A151
Author(s):  
Jamie Walker ◽  
Rebecca Campbell ◽  
Ivan Vargas

Abstract Introduction Insomnia and depression are highly comorbid and have been shown to be independently associated with lower levels of physical activity. It is not clear, however, if being less physically active is a risk factor for or consequence of depression and insomnia. The factors that explain the associations between insomnia, depression, and physical activity are likely complex and overlapping. For example, insomnia may predict inactivity by impacting one’s energy levels, leaving them too tired to exercise. Insomnia may also interfere with one’s motivation to exercise due to low mood, as insomnia is associated with the development of depressive symptoms. The purpose of the present study was to explore whether depression mediated the link between insomnia and low levels of physical activity. Methods A national online survey was conducted from April-June 2020. Participants completed surveys to assess demographics, mood, sleep, and physical activity. Depressive symptoms were estimated with the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D). Insomnia symptoms were estimated with the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI). Physical activity levels were estimated with the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Analyses were conducted using multiple linear regression, with separate models for depression, insomnia, and the combination of the two, on levels of physical activity. Results 3,952 adults (Mage = 46.9 years) completed the survey. According to the unadjusted models, greater insomnia symptoms were associated with greater depressive symptoms (b = 0.4523, SE = 0.019593, p < .001), and lower levels of physical activity (b = -38.741, SE = 18.236, p = 0.0337). The relationship between insomnia and physical activity was no longer significant, however, when controlling for depression (b = -6.140, SE = 19.274, p = 0.75). According to the mediation analyses, there was an indirect effect of insomnia on physical activity that was explained by differences in depressive symptoms (Sobel Test = -4.895, SE = 6.518, p < .001). Conclusion Our findings support previous research indicating associations between symptoms of insomnia and depression and physical activity. Future research should examine if these same results hold using a longitudinal design. Support (if any) Vargas: K23HL141581


2016 ◽  
Vol 6 (1) ◽  
pp. 83-96 ◽  
Author(s):  
Donata Tania Vergura

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to investigate whether gambler’s cognitive errors affect gambling involvement and addiction. As the popularity of gambling has grown, questions are being raised about its excessive use and factors related to addictive behaviours. Design/methodology/approach – An online survey on 508 gamblers was conducted. Structural equation modelling was used to investigate the relationships among gambling beliefs, gambling involvement and problem gambling. Findings – Among the three sets of erroneous beliefs investigated, luck and superstition were significant predictors of both gambling involvement and the severity of gambling problems (according to the Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI)), while the illusion of control showed a negative relationship with the PGSI. Moreover, gambling involvement positively affected the potential risk of disease and mediates the relationship between luck and superstition and PGSI. Research limitations/implications – Because not all cognitive dimensions apparently influence gambling behaviour, future research should extend the analysis to include other variables that may moderate or mediate the causal relationship. Practical implications – The results are useful to marketers in developing social marketing campaigns wishing to discourage gambling. Moreover, factors that influence gambling involvement and addiction may be used as diagnostic tools to correct gamblers behaviour. Originality/value – The paper proposes a deeper exploration of the relationships among beliefs, gambling involvement and dysfunctional gambling and an appropriate scale to capture the entire spectrum of gambler’s beliefs in relation to every form of gambling activity.


ESMO Open ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 4 (3) ◽  
pp. e000467 ◽  
Author(s):  
Chi Kong Li ◽  
Rashmi Dalvi ◽  
Kan Yonemori ◽  
Hany Ariffin ◽  
Chuhl Joo Lyu ◽  
...  

BackgroundAdolescents and young adults (AYAs) with cancer require dedicated management encompassing both adult and paediatric cancer services. Following a European survey, the European Society for Medical Oncology, the European Society for Paediatric Oncology and the Asian continental branch of International Society of Paediatric Oncology undertook a similar survey to assess AYA cancer care across Asia.MethodsA link to the online survey was sent to healthcare professionals (HCPs) in Asia interested in AYA cancer care. Questions covered the demographics and training of HCPs, their understanding of AYA definition, availability and access to specialised AYA services, the support and advice offered during and after treatment, and factors of treatment non-compliance.ResultsWe received 268 responses from 22 Asian countries. There was a striking variation in the definition of AYA (median lower age 15 years, median higher age 29 years). The majority of the respondents (78%) did not have access to specialised cancer services and 73% were not aware of any research initiatives for AYA. Over two-thirds (69%) had the option to refer their patients for psychological and/or nutritional support and most advised their patients on a healthy lifestyle. Even so, 46% did not ask about smokeless tobacco habits and only half referred smokers to a smoking cessation service. Furthermore, 29% did not promote human papillomavirus vaccination for girls and 17% did not promote hepatitis B virus vaccination for high-risk individuals. In terms of funding, 69% reported governmental insurance coverage, although 65% reported that patients self-paid, at least partially. Almost half (47%) reported treatment non-compliance or abandonment as an issue, attributed to financial and family problems (72%), loss of follow-up (74%) and seeking of alternative treatments (77%).ConclusionsLack of access to and suboptimal delivery of AYA-specialised cancer care services across Asia pose major challenges and require specific interventions.


2020 ◽  
Vol 20 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Gayoung Moon ◽  
Inkyung Kim ◽  
Habhin Kim ◽  
Suwan Choe ◽  
Soyeon Jeon ◽  
...  

Abstract Background Traditionally, menstrual education has consisted of lectures directed toward women. The objective of this study was to design an innovative menstrual education (ME) program that reflects the needs of both young women and men, and verify its effectiveness. Methods A mixed-method design was used to determine the program needs and assess young adults’ knowledge and perceptions of menstruation and menstrual products. Focus group interviews were conducted with 14 young adults, and 150 young adults participated in an online survey. After developing the ME program, 10 young adults participated in a study to verify its effectiveness. Results Interview results showed young adults wanted more information about menstrual products. The online survey revealed significant differences in knowledge based on participants’ general characteristics and experience; exposure to menstruation and menstrual products positively impacted knowledge and perception. In addition, the results indicated young adults wanted ME content access via mobile and in-person modalities, designed for both genders, drawing on menstrual experts’ knowledge. Based on these results, a multi-experimental menstrual education (MEME) program was designed and included: hands-on exposure to 60 menstrual products, product demonstrations with a female perineal model, a YouTube video created by the researchers, a true-or-false quiz, and question-and-answer sessions with menstrual experts. Conclusions This study clarified the requirements of an innovative menstrual education program. It led to high satisfaction among participants, and improved knowledge and perceptions of menstruation and menstrual products. The online survey showed a correlation between the extent of received ME, and respondents’ perception of menstrual products. This implied that a MEME program could change perceptions when conducted systematically; by extension it could ameliorate menstruation challenges attributed to poverty. Future research could further verify the effectiveness of the MEME program, using a larger sample, and examine its suitability for incorporation into official ME curricula at universities and companies. Trial registration This trial was registered in a Clinical Research Information Service in Korea linked with the World Health Organization’s International Clinical Trial Registry Platform (WHO’s ICTRP) (no. KCT0004715), Registered 07 Feb 2020.


2020 ◽  
Vol 16 (6) ◽  
pp. e488-e497
Author(s):  
Talia Greenspoon ◽  
Rebecca Charow ◽  
Janet Papadakos ◽  
Mahsa Samadi ◽  
Anne Marie Maloney ◽  
...  

PURPOSE: Fertility is an important issue for adolescents and young adults with cancer facing potential infertility. Egg cryopreservation options exist, but information is sometimes overwhelming. We evaluated a fertility preservation educational video and assessed patient and family knowledge and impressions at pre- and post-video timepoints. METHODS: We developed a whiteboard video to explain egg cryopreservation to patients and families. The video was evaluated on the basis of patient education best practices (readability, understandability, actionability). Participants were recruited using convenience sampling in oncology clinics. They completed questionnaires before and after watching to assess knowledge and interest. Inclusion criteria were patients age 13-39 years and minimum 1 month from diagnosis. Descriptive statistics, correlation analyses, and mean comparisons were conducted. RESULTS: The video script read at a grade 8 reading level. Average understandability and actionability scores were below the acceptable standard. We recruited 108 patients (mean age, 27 years) and 39 caregivers/partners. Patients’ knowledge about fertility preservation increased after viewing the video. Interest was high before and after, and satisfaction was high for both patients and caregivers. Participants appreciated information on process, procedure, and delivery but desired more information on logistics, including cost. CONCLUSION: A targeted patient education video about fertility preservation options can build knowledge and encourage discussions about infertility. The video can be used as a model for videos on related topics to provide accurate information in a youth-friendly medium; however, following patient education best practices for readability, understandability, and actionability may increase video effectiveness. Future research should assess how audiovisual patient education material affects patient behavior.


2001 ◽  
Vol 16 (8) ◽  
pp. 599-606 ◽  
Author(s):  
Linda B. Cottler ◽  
Sharon B. Womack ◽  
Wilson M. Compton ◽  
Arbi Ben-Abdallah

Author(s):  
Nigel E Turner ◽  
Mark Van der Maas ◽  
John McCready ◽  
Hayley A Hamilton ◽  
Tracy Schrans ◽  
...  

This study examined the rate of gambling problems among Ontario older adults at gambling venues. Herein we describe an intercept survey that took place at casinos and horse racing tracks with slot machines or other forms of casino games (racinos) in southwestern Ontario, Canada. This method provided a significant opportunity to obtain a large sample of older adult casino gamblers in order to understand the gambling habits and gambling problems of this population. We used an intercept recruitment method to obtain a sample of 2,103 older adults (aged 55 and older) who were gambling at each of the seven gaming venues, as well as a systematic quota sampling method for age category (e.g., 55–64, 65–74, and 75 and above) and sex. On average, the participants engaged in 3.6 forms of gambling in the past year, and 78.6% reported playing slot machines or other forms of electronic gaming machines monthly or more often. They reported spending an average of 3.29 hr gambling at casinos or racinos per visit and 134.9 hr at casinos or racinos per year. Just over one-fifth of the sample reported spending more than $6,000 in casinos or racinos in the past year. Based on the Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI), the proportion of the sample experiencing severe problem gambling (PGSI = 8+) was 6.9%, and an additional 20.3% reported moderate gambling problems (PGSI = 3 to 7).RésuméCette étude a examiné le taux de problèmes de jeu de personnes âgées de l’Ontario sur les sites de jeu. On y décrit un sondage par interception qui a eu lieu dans des casinos et des pistes de course de chevaux où se trouvent des machines à sous ou d’autres formes de jeux de casino (racinos) dans le sud-ouest de l’Ontario, au Canada. Cette méthode a fourni une occasion importante d’obtenir un vaste échantillon de joueurs de casino adultes plus âgés afin de comprendre les habitudes de jeu et les problèmes de jeu de cette population. Nous avons utilisé une méthode de recrutement par interception pour obtenir un échantillon de 2 103 aînés (âgés de 55 ans et plus) qui jouaient à chacun des sept sites de jeu, ainsi qu’une méthode d’échantillonnage systématique par quotas pour les catégories d’âge (p. ex. 55–64, 65–74 et 75 ans et plus) et le sexe. En moyenne, les participants ont joué à 3,6 formes de jeu au cours de la dernière année, et 78,6 % ont déclaré jouer aux machines à sous ou à d’autres formes de machines de jeux électroniques tous les mois ou plus souvent. Ils ont déclaré avoir consacré en moyenne 3,29 heures à jouer dans les casinos ou les racinos par visite et 134,9 heures dans les casinos ou les racinos par année. Un peu plus d’un cinquième de l’échantillon a déclaré avoir dépensé plus de 6 000 $ dans des casinos ou des racinos au cours de la dernière année. Selon l’Indice de gravité du jeu problématique (IGJP), la proportion de joueurs de l’échantillon ayant eu des problèmes de jeu excessifs (IGJP = 8+) était de 6,9 %, et une autre partie de 20,3 % des joueurs a signalé avoir des problèmes de jeu modérés (IGJP = 3 à 7).


2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Katherine Zheng ◽  
Maureen George ◽  
Eugene Roehlkepartain ◽  
John Santelli ◽  
Jean-Marie Bruzzese ◽  
...  

BACKGROUND Developmental assets provide a framework for optimizing development among adolescents but have not been studied in adolescents with chronic illness and comorbid depression, which is a group at risk for poor health outcomes. YouTube postings provide valuable insights to understand this understudied population. OBJECTIVE This study aims to explore asset development from the perspectives of adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with chronic illness and comorbid depression. METHODS YouTube was searched using 12 chronic illnesses (eg, diabetes) coupled with “depression” as keywords. Videos were included if they were uploaded by AYAs aged between 11 and 29 years and discussed living with chronic illness and depression during adolescence. Video transcripts were coded deductively for 40 internal and external assets that constitute the Developmental Assets Framework. Categories not captured by deductive coding were identified using conventional content analysis. Categories and their respective assets were labeled as being discussed either negatively or positively. RESULTS In total, 31 videos from 16 AYAs met the inclusion criteria. A total of 7 asset categories, support, constructive use of time, boundaries and expectations (external assets), identity, commitment to learning, positive values, and social competence (internal assets), reflecting 25 (13 internal; 12 external) assets, were discussed. Internal assets, particularly relating to identity, were commonly discussed by AYAs either in a negative way or fluctuated between positive and negative perspectives. CONCLUSIONS In this sample of AYAs with chronic illness and comorbid depression, internal assets were commonly discussed in a negative way. Future research is needed to better understand how assets develop and if the Developmental Assets Framework adequately represents the experiences of this population.


Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document