PhD
PhD by Research
Our PhD by research programme is based on independent study, guided by your assigned supervisors and support system. It typically [...]
Research Project Overview
Ahtsham’s research comprises two interrelated studies. The first study aims to synthesise the broad range of gambling-related harms experienced by concerned significant others (CSOs) of individuals with problem gambling, examine the severity of these harms across different relationship types, and explore the coping strategies CSOs use to manage these impacts. The second study evaluates the effectiveness of support services designed for CSOs. The project acknowledges the substantial psychosocial harms experienced by CSOs, the growing demand for targeted support, and the limited effectiveness of existing interventions for both problem gamblers and their significant others. Given the well-established role of CSOs in the treatment and recovery processes of other addictions, this research highlights the importance of integrating CSOs into interventions aimed at improving outcomes for individuals experiencing problem gambling.
Funders: Centre of Excellence in Responsible Gaming, University of Gibraltar
Project Team
Project Lead: Mr Ahtsham Pervez
Supervisors: Dr Andrea Czakó (Primary Supervisor), Prof Zsolt Demetrovics (Secondary Supervisor).
The study’s original contribution lies in extending current knowledge by examining CSO experiences across a range of relationship types and by integrating CSOs into a longitudinal evaluation of treatment outcomes. This moves beyond existing research that has largely focused on gamblers or, in the case of CSOs, primarily on spouses or partners. Involving a broader range of CSOs enables a more inclusive understanding of gambling-related harm and recovery processes. Given the limited effectiveness of current approaches and the evidence supporting family involvement in other addiction treatments, the study highlights the importance of incorporating CSOs into problem gambling interventions.
Research methods
The first is a systematic review conducted in line with established guidelines (e.g., PRISMA). It will use a structured search strategy across relevant databases, with predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, systematic screening, and quality appraisal of included studies. The second study is a longitudinal empirical investigation conducted within a residential treatment setting (Gordon Moody), using a repeated-measures design to assess change over time in both gamblers and their Concerned Significant Others (CSOs). Data are collected at multiple time points (admission, discharge, and follow-up) via secure online questionnaires. Standardised measures assess psychological well-being (e.g., anxiety, depression, stress), gambling severity and recovery outcomes, relational functioning, and CSO-specific variables such as burden, coping, and emotional distress.
The design also enables comparison between key groups (e.g., CSOs linked to gamblers in treatment vs. not in treatment, and gamblers whose CSOs receive parallel support vs. those who do not). Longitudinal analyses, such as mixed-effects modelling, will be used to examine change over time, between-group differences, and patterns of recovery while accounting for repeated measures and missing data.
Relevance to the wider community
This study has significant relevance for the wider community in addressing the multidimensional impact of gambling harm on both individuals and their Concerned Significant Others (CSOs). By examining outcomes for CSOs alongside gamblers in treatment, it highlights the often-overlooked emotional and psychological burden experienced within affected relationships. This contributes to a more holistic understanding of recovery, recognising the interdependence between gamblers and their significant others. Overall, the study supports the development of more integrated approaches to intervention, promoting relational wellbeing, recovery, and strengthened support systems within affected families and communities.
Pathways to impact
Findings from this project may inform more integrated treatment approaches by incorporating the needs and experiences of Concerned Significant Others (CSOs) into existing intervention models. This has the potential to enhance recovery outcomes for gamblers while also improving well-being within affected relationships and families. The study also evaluates existing support provision for both gamblers and CSOs, identifying areas for refinement in order to better address their distinct and interconnected needs. In doing so, it contributes to the development of more responsive, evidence-based strategies that reflect the relational nature of gambling harm and recovery.
© Copyright 2026 University of Gibraltar. All rights reserved. Registered charity no. 273