A full house : the gamblers, their families, and family-based intervention strategies for problem gambling

Abstract

It is the purpose of this paper to bring attention to problem gambling and the impact it has on many adult Canadian gamblers and their families. An attempt is made to provide a comprehensive picture of the complex situation faced by the gambler and the family when gambling becomes a problem. Family-based interventions are described in an effort to aid social workers who work with the gambler's family. Using a systems-based perspective, recommendations derived from the literature review are presented as a guide to facilitate a positive intervention process and a successful outcome. This research report was submitted to The School of Social Work, Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research, McGill University for The Master's Degree in Social Work.