The Situational Analysis of Problem Gamblers in Recovery: An Action Research Study

As of 2012, there were more than 100 studies on the prevalence and social impact of problem gambling in Canada. However, few qualitative psychological studies specifically explored the process of therapy for problem gamblers. This research initiative attempts to bridge this notable gap in the literature. In this action research inquiry, I explore the recalled experiences of therapeutic interactions of six problem gamblers and six registered clinical counsellors. The participants engaged in focus groups, individual interviews, and a teleconference that helped to foster a greater understanding of the stigma attached to “being” a problem gambler. Although there are many comprehensive works on the topic of stigma, I felt the quintessential work of Erving Goffman (1963) on the moral management of stigma and spoiled identity was a fitting lens through which to examine the plight of the problem gambler in counselling. In this exploratory inquiry, I found many examples of participant gamblers morally managing their identities, agentively adopting, challenging, or resisting various descriptions of their stigmatized status. My situational analyses highlighted how clients engaged in “healthy” resistance, agentively managing the potential for stigmatized or spoiled identities. These shared narratives brought awareness to the marginalized status of “being” a problem gambler, while providing an appreciation of ways in which clients and counsellors can collaboratively promote preferred ways of being. These findings also indicate that further sensitivity may be required for practitioners providing services to stigmatized populations, such as the individual with gambling problems. Implications for counselling theory, practice, and possible future research are discussed