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The outcome is uncertain
Definition of Gambling
Actually there is no single, clear cut definition of what gambling is but it is widely agreed that;
- Two or more people agree to take part in the activity (usually an operator and the person who wishes to gamble)
- Normally money (the 'stake') is paid by the loser to the winner
- The outcome is uncertain
- The result is determined (partly) by chance
What's in it for me?
The motivation to gamble
Ok, so we all understand that gambling offers you the chance of winning money or prizes, but have you considered some of the other reasons why we might choose to gamble?
Risk taking
It is human nature to feel excited when taking risks and the positive feeling gained from gambling is no different. "Will my numbers come up?" "Will my team win?" The sense of anticipation creates a natural high, an adrenalin rush, a feeling that very many of us seek when looking for fun and entertainment. A feeling that some people believe they cannot live without.
Escapism
The gambling environment can provide an escape from everyday life. Whether it be the glitzy casino environment, a loud and exciting amusement arcade or even an online betting company, for the time that we are taking part we can be surrounded by different people, different sounds and emotions, all of which stimulate and arouse our senses.
Social
Gambling is accepted as part of this country's culture and as such is widely participated in (with varying frequency) by the majority of the population. Some young people are introduced to gambling by learning to play card games with their parents at home; maybe we go the bingo with friends on a Friday night or meet after school at the amusement arcade.
Gambling in the UK - the figures
Gambling participation in the UK
Approximately 76% of men and 68% of women gambled in the past year. 75% of teenagers gamble.
1998 Sue Fisher Survey
In 1998 Sue Fisher conducted a survey of 12-15 year olds and published the following figures:
- 75% played fruit/slot machines
- 47% played National Lottery scratch cards
- 40% played the National Lottery draw
- 7% had been illegally sold tickets
- 5% showed signs of gambling addiction
Who are the real winners?
The turnover for the gambling industry is over £42 billion per year - over £115 million a day!
And over £1.5 billion goes to the government in taxes!
The New Laws
The new laws will retain 3 main objectives:
- 1. Gambling should remain crime-free
- 2. Players should know what to expect and should not be exploited
- 3. Adequate protection should be available for children and vulnerable people
 In many respects the Government considers existing law has proved successful, and has provided an environment in which the British gambling industry has achieved a world-class reputation for integrity. However, changes need to be made, not least to take into account of changes in technology and gambling trends.
Gambling Dependency
The 'hidden' addiction
Gambling dependency is quite different to any other addiction in that it is very difficult to spot. We call it 'hidden' because:
- Unlike drug addiction or alcoholism there are no physical symptoms.
- Gamblers who have 'a problem' are frequently in denial or try to hide it.
- Gamblers with a problem become incredibly clever and effective at making up believable stories to mask the truth.
- It is easy for some people to explain away money shortages and debt.
- Young people often display a number of excessive behaviours that may make it difficult to identify gambling as being
a problem.
Whilst gambling is on the whole an enjoyable and exciting recreational activity for many it is clear that some people do suffer through dependency. This can sometimes be attributed to, amongst others;
- Close personal loss
- Stress, at home, at work
- A considerable win early on
- Debt
Signs and symptoms
´ - Gambling is viewed as a real opportunity to make money.
- Spending a lot of time alone gambling.
- Frequenting amusement arcades, betting shops, racetracks, or casinos several times a week.
- Excessive use of Internet casinos and gambling sites.
- Spending more than they can afford on the Lottery.
- Committing crime to fund gambling or to pay off gambling debts.
Do you think gambling might be a problem for you, or somebody you know?
Self-Help Tips
Problem gambling can affect anyone. Often gamblers don't even realise that they have lost control of their gambling, and are on a downward spiral that is hard to turn around without help. It is important to be aware of your own gambling behaviour and maintain control in order to continue gambling socially and without harm.
To help you monitor your own gambling it is good to remember the following:
- You're buying fun, not investing
your money.
- Before playing, set strict limits on how you're going to spend.
- Quit while you're ahead.
- Only gamble with money you can afford to lose.
- Don't spend more money on gambling with the hope to win back money that you have lost.
- Keep up other interests and hobbies - don't let gambling take over your life.
- Don't gamble in order to escape from stress or boredom.
Strategies for Help
If you feel that you have lost control of your gambling, then it is important to admit it to yourself and get help. There are people who will be able to understand your situation and support you. The first steps are always the hardest but the following advice should help:
- Find someone you can trust to talk to about your problem.
- Be honest with yourself and others.
- Take one day at a time, and don't expect everything to improve within a day.
- If you feel tempted to gamble, speak to someone to share your feelings.
- Get professional help and support
The effect of problem gambling on the family can be devastating, often leading to the breakdown of relationships. Partners of problem gamblers frequently seek help for themselves as they find it hard to come to terms with their partner's behaviour, and at times blame themselves for not being able to help.
What Can You Do?
- Remember you are not the only family facing this problem.
- You may be able to help by talking the problem through, but it is probably better if you involve a skilled person outside the family.
- Keep in mind that it is a serious matter and gamblers cannot 'just give up'.
- Take a firm stand. Whilst it might feel easier to give in to demands and to believe everything he or she says, this only allows them to avoid facing the problem.
- Leave the responsibility for the gambling and its consequences with them. Help them admit to it and to work at overcoming the dependency.
- Do not condemn them, as this is unhelpful and may drive them back to gambling. However, setting firm and fair boundaries to their behaviour is constructive.
- Do not trust them with money until the dependency is broken. If they agree, it is helpful to manage their money for a short period.
For Help and advice on this subject
National Helpline
0845 6000133
This service is available 24 hours
a day and at a lo-call rate.
or
www.gamcare.org.uk
Special thanks to GAMCARE for their
help and advice on this subject.
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