Public opinions and expectations increasingly define what governments can and cannot do, particularly with “morality issues” such as gambling (McAllister, 2014). Given the importance placed on public perceptions in affecting gambling regulations, this literature review will explore Public Perceptions of Problem Gambling. The policy relevant to this topic is the National Gambling Reform Act 2012. Although the literature covers many different theories and ideas, this review will focus on two major ideas, problem gambling and public perceptions. It will examine the factors defining problem gambling behaviour and the influences behind public perception of gambling.
Problem Gambling
To study public perceptions of problem gambling, it is necessary to first examine the subject of problem gambling itself. As gambling encompasses many forms, it is important to consider the factors defining problem gambling behaviour in order to identify the areas governments should focus on when addressing the issue. In the literature reviewed, factors such as volume, frequency of gambling, harms to normal life and the …show more content…
In an earlier study, Jacobs (1986) found three main reasons people may struggle to resist an activity and develop or maintain an addictive behaviour. Those reasons were positive reinforcement from the activity, overlearning and fear of anticipated distress. However, Cronce et al. (2007) added self perception of gambling problems, as another possible reason people may not be able to resist an activity and seek treatment. While studying adolescents’ self perceptions on problem gambling, Cronce et al. (2007) found adolescents who had family members with gambling problems, more likely to recognise problem gambling behaviour in themselves and seek help than those who had no familial gambling problems. This suggests many adolescents may not be fully aware of problem gambling symptoms and
Problem Gambling
To study public perceptions of problem gambling, it is necessary to first examine the subject of problem gambling itself. As gambling encompasses many forms, it is important to consider the factors defining problem gambling behaviour in order to identify the areas governments should focus on when addressing the issue. In the literature reviewed, factors such as volume, frequency of gambling, harms to normal life and the …show more content…
In an earlier study, Jacobs (1986) found three main reasons people may struggle to resist an activity and develop or maintain an addictive behaviour. Those reasons were positive reinforcement from the activity, overlearning and fear of anticipated distress. However, Cronce et al. (2007) added self perception of gambling problems, as another possible reason people may not be able to resist an activity and seek treatment. While studying adolescents’ self perceptions on problem gambling, Cronce et al. (2007) found adolescents who had family members with gambling problems, more likely to recognise problem gambling behaviour in themselves and seek help than those who had no familial gambling problems. This suggests many adolescents may not be fully aware of problem gambling symptoms and