Family Influences on Adolescent Gambling Behavior: A Review of the Literature

Jennifer L. McComb, Catherine M. Sabiston

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

83 Scopus citations

Abstract

Gambling, and gambling related problems, are recognized as an emerging health issue among adolescents. Adolescent gambling is associated with numerous individual, social, and family characteristics. This paper provides a review of 21 empirical studies published between 1997 and 2008 that examine family influences on adolescent gambling behavior. Family influences on gambling behavior are conceptualized in the following five domains: (1) family sociodemographic factors, (2) general family climate, (3) family members' attitudes and behaviors, (4) parenting practices, and (5) family relationship characteristics. Based on the review of extant literature, there is empirical evidence that family characteristics are associated with adolescent gambling and further examination of family system influences on gambling behavior is needed. Gaps in the current literature and recommendations for future research are discussed to help inform the study of family influences on adolescent gambling behavior.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)503-520
Number of pages18
JournalJournal of Gambling Studies
Volume26
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - Dec 2010

Funding

Acknowledgements This project was made possible by a Doctoral Fellowship to the first author from the Social Science and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

Keywords

  • Adolescent gambling
  • Adolescents
  • Families
  • Gambling
  • Literature review

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Sociology and Political Science
  • General Psychology

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