PROBLEM GAMBLERS, PROBLEM SUBSTANCE USERS, AND DUAL-PROBLEM INDIVIDUALS - AN EPIDEMIOLOGIC-STUDY

Objectives. This study compared problem gamblers, problem substance us ers, dual-problem individuals, and persons without these problems in t he general population. Methods. On the basis of computer-assisted tele phone interviews of a random sample of Texas adults (n = 6308) standar d instruments were used to gauge substance use and gambling problems i n the general population. Results. Compared with those having a substa nce use or gambling problem only, dual-problem individuals were more l ikely to be young, never-married men, without conventional religious a ffiliations. There was more dysfunctionality (as evidenced by treatmen t-seeking and problems with the law) among dual-problem respondents th an among those troubled exclusively by gambling or substance use probl ems. Conclusions. Screening and treatment for gambling problems should be offered in drug treatment and criminal justice arenas.