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Friends may help curb the urge to gamble
Friendships may play a major role in regulating people's gambling practices, according to research under way at Swinburne University of Technology.
The project is exploring people's vulnerability and resilience to problem gambling and is seeking the views of those who have developed a problem with gambling and those for whom it remains a controlled activity.
"We are looking at what attracts people to gambling activities, the gambling choices that they make, and the way in which ready access to gambling influences their decision to take part," said project manager Anna Thomas.
In the first phase of the research a series of focus groups were conducted with gamblers which revealed a number of differences between the experiences of problem and social gamblers.
One participant addicted to poker machines said that the venue was a place "where I could go and escape from the reality of life and where no-one else could bug me. You can go there and feel absolutely numb".
Others highlighted the social nature of gambling: "there's a social sort of connection with some friends. If you win, it's fantastic, but if not, then we've all had some fun doing it".
Indeed, friendships played a significant role in people's regulation of their gambling practices, and kept several participants accountable. As one woman explained, "now that I'm married I'm on rations once a year - it's not self-regulation, it's spouse regulation!"
The researchers are looking for more participants to help with phase two of the research by filling in a short survey about gambling. Anyone can take part, even those who choose not to gamble.
"We hope that this study will help people who have problems restricting their gambling, and will also inform policy makers about ways that gambling venues can be adapted to help individuals regulate their own gambling use," Thomas said.
To participate in the survey or for more information go to http://www.problemgambling.org.au/ or contact Anna Thomas on 9214 4697, or at athomas@swin.edu.au .
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Media Contact: Lea Kivivali, 0410 569 311
18.03.2008
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