A comparative analysis of sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of gambling disorder by sex among treatment-seeking individuals: A national sample from Türkiye

Background and Aims: Gambling disorder (GD) is a growing public health concern, with emerging evidence suggesting potential sex differences in clinical presentation, gambling preferences, and treatment-seeking patterns. Furthermore, non-Western countries/cultures and women's clinical populations are understudied. Therefore, this study aimed to examine sex-related sociodemographic characteristics, gambling behaviors, and psychiatric symptoms among treatment-seeking individuals with GD in Türkiye. Methods: Data from 12,505 treatment-seeking individuals who registered for Green Crescent Counselling Center between 2021 and 2024 were analyzed. A total of 330 women participants who met the inclusion criteria were identified and compared with a sample of 990 men participants (matched on age, marital status, and education). Sociodemographic and clinical features, gambling preferences, and psychiatric symptoms were compared between groups. Results: A notable increase in the number and proportion of women seeking-treatment for GD was observed between 2021 and 2024. Women reported beginning gambling at a later age and engaging in it for a shorter duration compared to men. They showed a distinct gambling pattern, with a strong preference for online casino games, whereas men primarily engaged in sports betting. Women also exhibited higher rates of co-occurring psychiatric concerns, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, along with greater impulsivity. Discussion and Conclusions: Our findings highlight meaningful sex-related differences in the clinical presentation and gambling behaviors of treatment-seeking individuals with GD. The sizable representation of women suggests the need for sex-sensitive prevention and intervention strategies. Tailored approaches that address co-occurring psychiatric concerns, gambling preferences, and speculative motivations, may enhance treatment outcomes and inform future service provision in the treatment of GD, particularly for women.