ICE Study Warns Stigma Worsens Problem Gambling

Spain.– March 25,  2026 – www.zonadeazar.com  Research backed by the ICE Research Institute highlights how media narratives can intensify harmful gambling behaviours, particularly among vulnerable players.

Overview

A new academic study supported by the ICE Research Institute sheds light on a critical issue within the gambling industry: the role of social stigma in exacerbating problem gambling. Conducted in Spain, the research explores how media portrayals of gambling directly influence player behaviour.

Details / Context

The study, titled “Social Representations and Stigma Surrounding Gambling in Contemporary Spain”, was led by Dr David Pere Martínez Oró, Director of Episteme Social. It analysed 726 newspaper articles published between 2011 and 2024.

Findings indicate that framing gambling as a personal failure rather than a regulated leisure activity has significant consequences. Such narratives reinforce stigma, pushing vulnerable individuals towards riskier environments with fewer protective factors.

Dr Martínez Oró emphasised that stigma has clear behavioural effects: it increases feelings of shame, encourages concealment, and discourages individuals from seeking help, ultimately intensifying harmful behaviours.

Specific Topics

The research also highlights gender-based differences in the impact of stigma. While media coverage may not disproportionately target women, the social consequences are more severe.

Women are often judged against traditional roles, being labelled as “bad mothers” or “inadequate caregivers,” whereas men are typically portrayed as “reckless” or “weak.” This creates a higher social burden for women.

The study further warns that increasing social acceptance of gambling alone will not eliminate stigma. Without changes in regulation, education, and media framing, these narratives will remain embedded in society.

Future Perspective

The research advocates for a shift towards a shared responsibility model, distributing accountability among regulators, industry stakeholders, media, communities, and players.

This approach aims to reduce harm without reinforcing stigma, promoting a more sustainable and balanced gambling ecosystem.

The support of the ICE Research Institute was highlighted as essential, enabling broader dissemination, stronger methodology, and deeper industry engagement.

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