(PS1-14) Examining Gambling Disorder in Women Veterans: Psychological Profiles and Treatment Implications

Women veterans represent a growing but understudied population, comprising nearly 25% of the U.S. military. Research indicates that they face unique mental health challenges, including elevated rates of psychiatric comorbidities compared to their male counterparts. However, limited research has explored how these vulnerabilities intersect with gambling behaviors in this population. This study examines patterns of gambling preferences and psychiatric comorbidities among women veterans to identify distinct clinical profiles.

A sample of 680 veterans (560 men, 120 women) who reported gambling behaviors was analyzed. Cluster analysis was conducted separately for men and women to identify meaningful subgroups based on psychiatric comorbidities and gambling preferences. Given the complexity of co-occurring mental health conditions, hierarchical clustering was chosen as the primary method.

Women veterans formed a distinct subgroup characterized by a preference for non-strategic gambling activities (e.g., slot machines, lotteries), increased PTSD prevalence, and higher likelihood of mood disorder diagnoses. In contrast, male veterans displayed demonstrated greater heterogeneity in gambling behaviors and psychopathology. These findings suggest that gambling disorder among women veterans is closely linked to trauma-related symptoms and affective symptoms, whereas men present with more varied clinical patterns.

These findings highlight the need for tailored cognitive-behavioral interventions that address trauma-related gambling motivations among women veterans. Future research should explore these clinical patterns longitudinally and incorporate trauma-focused treatment approaches to improve outcomes for women veterans struggling with gambling related concerns.