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***GambLux EDITOR ARTICLES*** |
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Dealing with the social impact of gambling
[Thursday, March 15, 2007]
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It should come as no surprise that gambling in general (and the online variety in particular) has a negative side. People can lose their sense of proportion and become dependent on it.
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Psychologists at the University of Connecticut Health Center, USA, surveyed the gambling behavior of 390 people. Out of this total, they found that 11% were problem gamblers and over 15% could be categorized as pathological gamblers.
The easiest forms of gambling were also the most popular: lottery (89%), slot machines (82%) and scratch tickets (79%). Other categories were card-playing forms of gambling (71%), sports betting (57%), bingo (56%) and animal betting (53%). The researchers also found that Internet gamblers were more likely to be unmarried and younger, with lower education and income levels.
Admittedly, a survey of less than 400 people cannot deliver definitive results. However it is a good indication of trends and certainly indicates social concern. One organization that is working to guide players about the social impact of gambling is GamCare, a registered charity in the UK http://www.gamcare.org.uk.
GamCare provides a variety of care services and communication channels for people who are affected by problem gambling. Gamblers can use a National Helpline, get face-to-face counseling or counseling in groups. The company has strategies to help problem gamblers and a special track for women.
Dealing with online gambling
Gemcare recognizes that some factors of online gambling can increase the risk of developing a gambling problem. These factors are:
- People can gamble 24 hours a day in their own home
- Children are exposed to gambling web sites and can access them
- Concentrated online activity causes people to lose track of time while gambling
- There is less perception about cash - players forget that they are spending money
The company is working with Internet gaming companies to add several safety elements to their gambling sites. These include creating natural pauses between betting sessions and imposing limits on customer spending. Gambling sites are being encouraged to post socially responsible messages about the dangers of gambling and also to include a helpline number to Gemcare.
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