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Gambling frequency, gambling problems and concerned significant others of problem gamblers in Finland: Cross-sectional population studies in 2007 and 2011

Aims: This study compares past-year gambling frequency, gambling problems and concerned significant others (CSOs) of problem gamblers in Finland by age, from 2007 and 2011. Methods: We used random sample data collected in 2007 (n = 4722) and 2011 (n = 4484). The data were weighted, based on gender, age and region of residence. We measured the past-year gambling frequency using a categorical variable, while gambling severity was measured with the South Oaks Gambling Screen. We identified CSOs by a single question including seven response options. Chi-Squared and Fisher’s exact tests were used. Results: Overall, the past-year gambling frequency change was statistically significant between 2007 and 2011. Among 18–64-year-old Finnish people, the proportion of non-gamblers decreased. Yet, among 15–17-year-old respondents, non-gambling increased and gambling problems decreased. Among 18–24 year olds, the proportion of close ones with gambling problems also decreased. On the other hand, the proportion of family members with gambling problems increased among the 50–64 year olds. Conclusions: The increase in adult gambling participation was mainly explained by infrequent gambling. The proportion of gambling problems from the gamblers’ and CSOs’ perspective remained unchanged, yet significant changes were observed within age groups. The short-term changes in under-age gambling problems were desirable. Future studies should explore the adaptation and access hypotheses alongside gambling problems.