Beyond Abstinence: A Phenomenological Exploration of Identity and Long-Term Recovery from Gambling Disorder

Session Title

Poster session

Presentation Type

Poster Presentation

Start Date

27-5-2026 12:00 AM

Abstract

Research indicates that long-term recovery from gambling disorder significantly reduces relapse risk. While approximately 90% of individuals relapse in less than a year after treatment, this risk declines to 40-60% after the first few years of sustained recovery, and drops below 15% after five years. This underscores the need to move beyond a sole focus on abstinence and explore the deeper transformations that underpin lasting change. This phenomenological study investigates the lived experiences of individuals who have maintained recovery for at least five years. It aims to understand the essence of their journey, including shifts in identity, the rebuilding of relationships, and the development of sustainable daily practices. Currently, the researcher is recruiting 5-25 adult participants who self-identify as being in recovery from a gambling problem for a minimum of five years. Data will be collected via questionnaires and in-depth interviews, then analyzed using qualitative thematic analysis to identify core experiences. The study seeks to illuminate the fundamental dimensions of a recovered life, delineating the psychological and relational pathways that sustain long-term recovery. It aims to understand what it means to move beyond the "gambler" identity and reconstruct a life of meaning, connection, and restoration. *Data collection and analysis are projected for completion by April 2026.

Author Bios

Sophorn Theam Choau, Ph.D., LMFT, is an Assistant Professor and Co-Chair of the Department of Behavioral Health at La Sierra University. With over 18 years of clinical experience, she bridges research with practice to ensure effective care. Her research and clinical expertise focus on relational systems, trauma, and gambling addiction. As an educator, she has over a decade of experience teaching and mentoring graduate students. Dr. Choau is dedicated to ethically rigorous community service.

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May 27th, 12:00 AM

Beyond Abstinence: A Phenomenological Exploration of Identity and Long-Term Recovery from Gambling Disorder

Research indicates that long-term recovery from gambling disorder significantly reduces relapse risk. While approximately 90% of individuals relapse in less than a year after treatment, this risk declines to 40-60% after the first few years of sustained recovery, and drops below 15% after five years. This underscores the need to move beyond a sole focus on abstinence and explore the deeper transformations that underpin lasting change. This phenomenological study investigates the lived experiences of individuals who have maintained recovery for at least five years. It aims to understand the essence of their journey, including shifts in identity, the rebuilding of relationships, and the development of sustainable daily practices. Currently, the researcher is recruiting 5-25 adult participants who self-identify as being in recovery from a gambling problem for a minimum of five years. Data will be collected via questionnaires and in-depth interviews, then analyzed using qualitative thematic analysis to identify core experiences. The study seeks to illuminate the fundamental dimensions of a recovered life, delineating the psychological and relational pathways that sustain long-term recovery. It aims to understand what it means to move beyond the "gambler" identity and reconstruct a life of meaning, connection, and restoration. *Data collection and analysis are projected for completion by April 2026.