An investigation of gambling addicts applying to Erzurum YEDAM from the perspective of social work

In this study, gambling addicted individuals, who are a part of the social work profession, face many different stigmatization and disadvantageous situations in social life. This stigmatization situation causes gambling behaviors to continue and social risks and needs to emerge. For this reason, it is aimed to determine the reasons why gambling addicts who apply to Erzurum Green Crescent Counseling Center start gambling and the social risks and needs that affect their continuation, and to examine the points that need to be strengthened in these areas from a social service perspective and to contribute to the literature.Sociodemographic data of 10 individuals who participated in the study were examined. 100% of the participants are male, 40% are in the 20-30 age group and 60% are in the 31-39 age group. The average age of the participants is 31.1. Considering their marital status, 40% are single and 60% are married. 60% are high school graduates, 30% are university graduates, and 10% continue their formal education. 30% are workers, 30% are public servants, 10% are self-employed, 10% are tradesmen, and 20% are not working. When income status is evaluated, 10% define it as very high, 30% as high, 50% as medium, and 10% as poor. 100% of the participants have health insurance. Interviews were held with the participants. As a result of the developments regarding the information obtained, it is seen that social interventions have an important place in the support offered in starting, continuing and receiving support in the gambling flow. The social worker should benefit from the ecosystem in the intervention plan by taking an active role in the field of gambling, both as a protector and a permanent presence, and as a support for the addict and her relatives.