Profiling Emerging Adult Gamblers: A Latent Class Analysis

Session Title

Youth Gambling: Emerging Adult Profiles

Presentation Type

Paper Presentation

Start Date

27-5-2026 12:00 AM

Abstract

Research on emerging adult gambling has become more abundant in recent years; however, there has not been a large focus on profiles that may assist in harm reduction. The current study utilizes a sample of 1,000 emerging adults (aged 18-24) from a U.S.-based online panel to create profiles on gambling disorder and risk among this population. Using latent profile analysis, the study focused on identifying distinct subgroups of gambling behavior and associated clinical correlates. By utilizing the DSM-5 Gambling Disorder diagnostic criterion, the Promis-Depression Scale, and the DSM-5 Alcohol and Drug diagnostic criteria, separate profiles for male and female gamblers were created. Separate criteria was necessary due to identifiable differences when attempting to create universal profiles. For males, a 5-profile model offered the best fit, while for females, a 3-profile model was best. Details on the profiling and policy-related implications are discussed.

Author Bios

Dr. Michele Stacey is an associate professor in the Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology at East Carolina University (ECU) and the Sr. Data Analyst with the Gambling Research and Policy Initiative (GRPI) at ECU. In this role, Dr. Stacey has been involved in the development, implementation, and dissemination of a number of research studies examining gambling behavior and risk among different populations, including college students, those seeking help, and LGBTQ+ individuals.

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May 27th, 12:00 AM

Profiling Emerging Adult Gamblers: A Latent Class Analysis

Research on emerging adult gambling has become more abundant in recent years; however, there has not been a large focus on profiles that may assist in harm reduction. The current study utilizes a sample of 1,000 emerging adults (aged 18-24) from a U.S.-based online panel to create profiles on gambling disorder and risk among this population. Using latent profile analysis, the study focused on identifying distinct subgroups of gambling behavior and associated clinical correlates. By utilizing the DSM-5 Gambling Disorder diagnostic criterion, the Promis-Depression Scale, and the DSM-5 Alcohol and Drug diagnostic criteria, separate profiles for male and female gamblers were created. Separate criteria was necessary due to identifiable differences when attempting to create universal profiles. For males, a 5-profile model offered the best fit, while for females, a 3-profile model was best. Details on the profiling and policy-related implications are discussed.