Problem gamblers identifiable at age 3: study

Photo by Otago Daily Times.
Photo by Otago Daily Times.
Odds are that a restless, inattentive and moody toddler could turn into tomorrow's problem gambler, research involving the University of Otago reveals.

A new study published in the Psychological Science journal and based on data from the Dunedin Multidisciplinary Health and Development Study shows adult problem gamblers can be identified from the age of 3.

The study, based on data, found toddlers with "under-controlled temperament" were more than twice as likely to have gambling problems as adults than those toddlers rated "well adjusted".

The behaviour of toddlers was observed during a 90-minute assessment and then classified into one of five temperaments: under-controlled, inhibited, confident, reserved or well adjusted.

Children who were categorised as having an under-controlled temperament were more restless and impulsive, and less able to regulate their emotions than other toddlers.

Previous studies also noted 3-year-olds who were classified as behaviourally and emotionally under-controlled were more likely to be diagnosed with antisocial personality disorder and alcohol dependence at the age of 21.

Establishing the link between "behavioural under-control" and adults with disorder gambling would potentially help those researching problem gambling prevention, the report concluded.

hamish.mcneilly@odt.co.nz

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