Research conducted by GambleAware suggests increased vulnerability to gambling addiction among individuals with autism and ADHD.
Hold up, neurodivergent folks might be more prone to gambling addiction, y'all!
By Timm Schaffner, Edited by Angela Burke, Published on: 25.03.2025. Updated on: 24.04.2025.
A student harbors a secret attraction to games of chance. © Joakim Honkasalo/unsplash.com
Gambling addiction alarm bells for neurodivergent folk
Lately, a UK's GambleAware study, carried out in partnership with IFF Research and the University of Bristol, aims to uncover the link between neurodivergence and gambling harm risk [English study]. As per the iGaming Business report, neurodivergent individuals are twice as likely to develop problematic gambling behavior compared to neurotypical ones.
It's essential to note that this heightened risk isn't due to increased gambling frequency but rather stems from distinct reasons and patterns neurodivergent folks indulge in gambling.
Gambling: a stimulus for some neurodivergent folk
This study suggests that gambling serves as a conduit for clear structures, routine predictability, or a low-stimulation social environment cravings in neurodivergent individuals. For example, the sensory impact of specific gaming offerings, such as virtual slots with their repetitive structure and constant rewards, resonates strongly with individuals with ADHD.
For these folks, gambling functions as a stress-relieving stimulus that seeks to regulate attention and activity patterns temporarily.
Now, what’s neurodivergence?
Neurodivergence highlights neurological development deviations from average cognitive and behavioral patterns. Such conditions include ADHD, ASD, Tourette's syndrome, and dyslexia, among others. It's important to mention that these neurological patterns aren't considered diseases, but rather alternative cognitive, behavioral, and responsive styles.
Neurodivergent individuals frequently experience daily life challenges with sensory processing, communication, impulse control, and complex task management. In rigid systems such as schools, workplaces, or administration, they typically reach their limits more quickly than neurotypical individuals notice.
Regrettably, neurodivergent traits are often unrecognized or late-diagnosed, especially in adults and particularly in women, because classic symptom checklists tend to focus on visibly obvious behavior. Common treatment approaches, such as those designed for addiction prevention, do not yet address neurodivergent needs.
GambleAware's mission: customized help
The study's key finding summons the necessity for more individualized gambling prevention and treatment methods. Since gambling addiction and ADHD have been researched for years, yet few services cater specifically to affected individuals, GambleAware has announced plans to create specialized measures.
It's crucial to note that neurodivergent individuals might be less likely to participate in addiction counseling after developing problematic gambling behavior. Moreover, educators warn about the insufficiency of warning signs in gambling advertising.
For immediate assistance, neurodivergent individuals might find solace in general addiction support systems, while awaiting tailored solutions.
- The GambleAware study reveals that neurodivergent individuals are twice as likely to develop problematic gambling behavior than neurotypical individuals.
- The study suggests that gambling serves as a stimulus for neurodivergent people who may seek clear structures, routine predictability, or a low-stimulation social environment.
- Neurodivergence encompasses neurological development deviations from typical cognitive and behavioral patterns, including conditions like ADHD, ASD, Tourette's syndrome, and dyslexia.
- Unfortunately, neurodivergent traits are often unrecognized or late-diagnosed, and current treatment approaches for addiction prevention do not necessarily cater to neurodivergent needs.
- GambleAware has announced plans to create specialized measures for neurodivergent individuals struggling with gambling addiction, recognizing the necessity for more individualized care.
- General addiction support systems may provide immediate assistance for neurodivergent individuals dealing with problematic gambling behaviors, while tailored solutions are developed.
