Abstracts
Abstract
Given that little is currently known about gambling in the workplace, we conducted a mixed-methods study to describe the characteristics and experiences of people who gamble at work. We administered a Canada-wide online survey (n = 2,000) of adults who 1) gamble, 2) are currently employed full-time, and 3) have internet access at work. A descriptive analysis of quantitative survey data showed that individuals who gamble at work had lower job satisfaction and higher rates of problem gambling compared to those who do not. Among those who gamble at work, we quantitatively described the types of gambling, the consequences experienced, and the motivations for gambling. Qualitative interviews were conducted with 18 individuals who met the criteria for problem gambling and who gamble at work. Data were integrated to provide a richer description of the experiences of those who gamble at work, including their motivations, the role of work–life satisfaction, and the dynamic influence of work as a social context. Motivations for workplace gambling included excitement, social connection, avoidance, and coping with stress or emotions. The results highlight the importance of understanding the varied motivations of individuals who gamble at work, and the role of work experiences in shaping meaning regarding gambling behaviours.
Keywords:
- gambling,
- gambling research,
- mixed-methods,
- work
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Appendices
Biographical notes
Rebecca Hudson Breen (she/her) is an Associate Professor in the Counselling Psychology program in the Faculty of Education at the University of Alberta. Her research interests include issues of career-life, work, and mental health. She is particularly interested in the role of relationships and multiple life roles in understanding career-life well-being.
Daniel O’Brien (he/him) is a third-year doctoral student in Counselling Psychology at the University of Calgary. His research interests include substance use, excessive behaviours, harm reduction, child and youth mental health, and family therapy. He has a particular interest in critically evaluating public health and structural responses to substance use and addiction issues. With expertise in both qualitative and quantitative research methods, Daniel prefers to use mixed-methods approaches. As a developing clinician, Daniel has a special interest in using family therapy to address interpersonal and behavioural issues among children and youth.
James Sanders (he/him) is an Associate Professor in the Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Lethbridge. His research interests include behavioural addictions, including gambling and gaming, and the assessment and diagnosis of mental health disorders.
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