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Macey JR, Abarbanel BL, Castrén S, Hamari JJ, Salonen AH. Public opinions and attitudes toward a state monopoly: a study of the finnish gambling system. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:2012. [PMID: 37845653 PMCID: PMC10580558 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-16917-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gambling regulated through a state monopoly is often justified for reasons of public health, that is, that monopolies are a more effective means of reducing potential harm. This focus on harm prevention has increased in recent years, particularly as a result of pressures arising from the growth of online gambling and of legislation designed to promote competition. While prior works have examined the role of stakeholders in influencing policy decisions and in public discussions of the monopoly systems, attention has been focused on those with direct financial interests; the opinions of the public have largely been absent from these discussions. In 2017 Finland restructured its monopoly order to improve efficacy of addressing gambling related harms; this restructuring offers a valuable insight into public perceptions of and attitudes toward the suitability of the Finnish system to address gambling-related harm. METHODS This work uses Structural Equation Modelling and compares attitudes toward the Finnish system between 2015 (pre-restructuring) and 2019 (post-restructuring). RESULTS Overall public opinion of the Finnish system as being suitable for addressing gambling harms declined between 2015 and 2019, despite the restructuring. Several predictors of attitudes were identified, however, the majority had small effect sizes, while the model explained little variance. CONCLUSION This work concludes that existing approaches to examining public opinions of gambling regulation should be amended to include additional predictors. Furthermore, it is likely that context-specific predictors should be included in models, in order to reflect the socio-cultural history of the population being investigated. Such predictors should be determined in respect to the population of interest but, for example, could include items measuring trust in authority, political orientation, cultural acceptance of gambling, or religious affiliation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph R Macey
- Centre of Excellence in Game Culture Studies, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.
- Gamification Group, Faculty of Information Technology and Communication Sciences, Tampere University, Room B2125, Pinni B, Kanslerinrinne 1, 33100, Tampere, Finland.
| | - Brett L Abarbanel
- International Gaming Institute, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV, USA
- William F. Harrah College of Hospitality, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV, USA
| | - Sari Castrén
- Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland
- University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Juho J Hamari
- Gamification Group, Faculty of Information Technology and Communication Sciences, Tampere University, Room B2125, Pinni B, Kanslerinrinne 1, 33100, Tampere, Finland
| | - Anne H Salonen
- Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland
- University of Eastern Finland, Faculty of Health Sciences, Kuopio, Finland
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2
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Motivations for Esports Betting and Skin Gambling and Their Association with Gambling Frequency, Problems, and Harm. J Gambl Stud 2023; 39:339-362. [PMID: 35802281 PMCID: PMC9981487 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-022-10137-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/05/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to examine gambling motivations for esports betting and skin gambling and their association with gambling frequency, problems, and harm. Data were collected via a cross-sectional online survey with 736 participants aged 18 + who engaged in esports cash betting (n = 567), esports skin betting (n = 180), or skin gambling on games of chance (n = 325). Respondents were asked to rate their motivations for the three activities across seven domains: social, financial, positive feelings or enhancement, internal regulation, skill building, competition/challenge, and skin acquisition. The results highlight both similarities and differences in gambling motivations across products. Financial gain and enhancement (i.e., excitement) were the main motivations endorsed for all activities, whereas skin acquisition was an additional motivation for esports skin betting and skin gambling. Across all three products, gambling to escape or improve mood was associated with higher levels of problem gambling and harm. Financial gain motivation was associated with problem gambling only for esports skin betting and skin gambling on games of chance. These findings underscore the importance of considering motivational influences on engagement with emerging gambling activities, especially since some motivations may be a contributing factor in harmful gambling outcomes.
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Mariani Wigley ILC, Pastore M, Mascheroni E, Tremolada M, Bonichini S, Montirosso R. Tactile Biography Questionnaire: A contribution to its validation in an Italian sample. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0274477. [PMID: 36107821 PMCID: PMC9477375 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0274477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
As the interest in the beneficial effects of positive touch experiences is rapidly growing, having reliable and valid tools to its assessment is essential. The Tactile Biography Questionnaire (TBQ) allows to quantify individual differences in affective touch experiences throughout life. The aim of this article is to present a contribution to its validation in the Italian population. Data analysis were run on a sample of 2040 Italian individuals (Females = 1342, 64%) participating in an on-line survey. Confirmatory Factor Analysis and invariance analyses for gender were applied. Concurrent validity was checked using two specific subscales of the Touch Avoidance Questionnaire (TAQ—i.e., Family and Stranger). The four-dimensional structure of the TBQ was confirmed in the overall sample and by gender. Also, the TBQ showed an excellent internal consistency and a good concurrent validity with TAQ. The present study suggests that the TBQ can be used to support healthcare professionals and researchers to assess experiences of affective touch in different settings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Massimiliano Pastore
- Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Eleonora Mascheroni
- 0–3 Center for the at-Risk Infant, Scientific Institute IRCCS Eugenio Medea, Bosisio Parini, Lecco, Italy
| | - Marta Tremolada
- Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Sabrina Bonichini
- Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Rosario Montirosso
- 0–3 Center for the at-Risk Infant, Scientific Institute IRCCS Eugenio Medea, Bosisio Parini, Lecco, Italy
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4
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The relationship between videogame micro-transactions and problem gaming and gambling: A systematic review. COMPUTERS IN HUMAN BEHAVIOR 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2022.107219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Hagfors H, Castrén S, Salonen AH. How gambling motives are associated with socio-demographics and gambling behavior - A Finnish population study. J Behav Addict 2022; 11:63-74. [PMID: 35275094 PMCID: PMC9109631 DOI: 10.1556/2006.2022.00003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS The aims were to examine how socio-demographics and gambling behavior relate to both primary and additional gambling motives, and whether the gambling motives change during a one-year-period. METHODS The Finnish Gambling Harms Survey data was used. Gambling motives were measured with a categorical question. Gambling severity was measured using the Problem and Pathological Gambling Measure (PPGM). Using the first-wave data including only past-year gamblers (n = 5,684), five logistic regression models were utilized to explore the associations of gambling motives with socio-demographics and gambling behavior. The stability of gambling motives was assessed with McNemar's test using longitudinal data (n = 2,078). RESULTS Gambling for positive feeling was associated with younger age, high income, high gambling involvement and at-risk gambling. Monetary motive was associated with female gender, high gambling involvement, online or mixed-mode and at-risk gambling. Supporting worthy causes was associated with older age, monthly and weekly gambling, and land-based gambling. Socializing was associated with younger age and gambling occasionally on land-based venues with multiple game types. Finally, the motive to escape was intensified among 25-34-year-olds, homemakers, and those with high gambling involvement and at-risk or problem gambling. Gambling motives remained relatively stable for one year. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Gender and age profiles varied in different motives. Positive feeling, socializing and escape motive was heightened among younger respondents while supporting worthy causes was heightened among the oldest. Women gambled for money more often than men. Escape motive was associated with problem gambling. Longer follow-up is needed to confirm the longitudinal results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heli Hagfors
- Tampere University, Faculty of Social Science, Finland,Corresponding author. Tel.: +358 45 884 3583. E-mail:
| | - Sari Castrén
- Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Health and Well-Being Promotion Unit, Finland,University of Turku, Department of Psychology and Speech Language Pathology, Finland,University of Helsinki, Faculty of Medicine, Finland
| | - Anne H. Salonen
- Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Health and Well-Being Promotion Unit, Finland,University of Eastern Finland, Faculty of Health Sciences, Finland
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Hing N, Russell AM, Black A, Rockloff M, Browne M, Rawat V, Greer N, Stevens M, Dowling NA, Merkouris S, King DL, Salonen AH, Breen H, Woo L. Gambling prevalence and gambling problems amongst land-based-only, online-only and mixed-mode gamblers in Australia: A national study. COMPUTERS IN HUMAN BEHAVIOR 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2022.107269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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7
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Reasons for Gambling and Problem Gambling Among Norwegian Horse Bettors: A Real-World Study Utilizing Combining Survey Data and Behavioral Player Data. Int J Ment Health Addict 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s11469-020-00442-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractDespite the popularity of horserace gambling around the world, there is surprisingly little in-depth research on the topic. Additionally, studies suggest that motives for gambling are an important proximal factor related to problematic gambling among young people and adults. The present study investigated reasons for gambling among Norwegian horse bettors utilizing questions based on the Reasons for Gambling Questionnaire. The Norwegian gambling operator Rikstoto tracks all players’ behavior across all game types on the internet as well as land-based gambling and provided the data for the study. Consequently, the responses to the questions were correlated with actual gambling behavior. The authors were given access to an anonymized dataset of 3627 players (934 females and 2693 males) from the Norwegian horse betting operator Rikstoto who all completed a short survey. The reasons for gambling most endorsed by horserace bettors were to win big prizes and for excitement. The least endorsed reasons for gambling were to impress other people and to decrease tension. Gambling for money and gambling for recreation and coping were the most highly correlated with self-reported problem gambling. Age was significant and negatively correlated with self-reported gambling problems. The number of bets made, the amount of money consciously bet (i.e., players choosing the horse(s) compared to letting a random generator choose), as well as the monthly loss limit were significant and positively correlated. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, the present study is the first to investigate (i) motivations to gamble combining self-report data with data from a real-world setting, (ii) horserace betting with actual player data, and (iii) correlations between self-reported information about gambling problems with actual gambling behavior and self-reported motivation to play. Consequently, the findings are of high existential value to the gambling studies field.
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Ayandele O, Popoola O, Obosi AC. Influence of Demographic and Psychological Factors on Attitudes Toward Sport Betting Among Young Adults in Southwest Nigeria. J Gambl Stud 2020; 36:343-354. [PMID: 31377916 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-019-09882-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Prediction and wager on the outcome of games/matches are known as sports betting. Positive attitudes toward sports betting may, in the long run, predict sports betting behavior and gambling-related problems. This study, therefore, examined the influence of gender, age, sports betting knowledge and peer-based gambling on attitudes toward sports betting among young adults in Nigeria. The ex-post facto design was adopted in this cross-sectional survey. The participants were 749 students (42.9% females) of a large tertiary institution in southwest Nigeria. A standardized questionnaire comprising demographics and measures of attitudes toward sports betting, sports betting knowledge and perception of peer gambling behavior was utilized in the study. Results revealed that attitudes toward sports betting are positive for older males who are knowledgeable about sports betting and have friends who gamble. Sports betting knowledge and peer-based gambling stood out as significant predictors of attitudes toward sports betting. The social circles of young adults may be the starting points for initiatives to develop healthy attitudes toward sports betting and preventing gambling-related problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olusola Ayandele
- Department of General Studies, The Polytechnic, Ibadan, Nigeria. .,Department of Psychology, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria.
| | - Olugbenga Popoola
- American Trinity University, (African Campus), Porto Novo, Republic of Benin
| | - Abel C Obosi
- Department of Psychology, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
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Parke J, Williams RJ, Schofield P. Exploring psychological need satisfaction from gambling participation and the moderating influence of game preferences. INTERNATIONAL GAMBLING STUDIES 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/14459795.2019.1633381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Parke
- Salford Business School, University of Salford, Salford, UK
- Sophro Ltd, Newark Beacon, Newark-on-Trent, UK
| | - Robert J. Williams
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB, Canada
| | - Peter Schofield
- Department of Service Sector Management, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, UK
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Barrada JR, Navas JF, Ruiz de Lara CM, Billieux J, Devos G, Perales JC. Reconsidering the roots, structure, and implications of gambling motives: An integrative approach. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0212695. [PMID: 30794642 PMCID: PMC6386301 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0212695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2018] [Accepted: 02/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Rationale and method Accurately identifying motives to gamble is crucial in the functional analysis of gambling behavior. In this study, a data-driven approach was followed to clarify the factor structure underlying a pool of motives for gambling, selected from the Gambling Motives Questionnaire–Financial (GMQ-F), and the Reasons for Gambling Questionnaire (RGQ), in a sample of regular problem and non-problem gamblers. Additionally, the role of gambling motives in the relationship between root behavioral activation/inhibition systems (BIS/BAS) and gambling severity, frequency, and preferences was explored using structural equation modelling (SEM). Results and conclusions The present study identified Social, Financial, and Fun/thrill-related gambling motives factors, but also a fourth factor in which some positive and negative reinforcement-based motives were grouped into a single and broader Affect regulation factor. This Affect regulation factor shared variance both with BIS and BAS-related measures, and was the only direct predictor of disordered gambling symptoms. The Fun/thrill factor was directly related to frequency of participation in high-arousal, skill-based games, and all factors were related to participation in lower-arousal, chance games (with Social motives negatively predicting both participation in the latter and total severity). In the SEM model, measures of BIS/BAS sensitivity were connected to gambling behavior only through gambling motives. Based on measures of items’ specificity, a shortened Spanish scale (the brief Gambling Motives Inventory, bGMI) is proposed to assess gambling motives in accordance with the observed 4-factor structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan R. Barrada
- Departamento de Psicología y Sociología, Universidad de Zaragoza, Teruel, Spain
| | - Juan F. Navas
- Mind, Brain and Behavior Research Center (CIMCYC), University of Granada, Granada, Spain
- * E-mail:
| | | | - Joël Billieux
- Addictive and Compulsive Behaviours Lab, Institute for Health and Behaviour, University of Luxembourg, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
- Centre for Excessive Gambling, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Laboratory for Experimental Psychopathology (LEP), Psychological Sciences Research Institute, Université catholique de Louvain, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Gaëtan Devos
- Laboratory for Experimental Psychopathology (LEP), Psychological Sciences Research Institute, Université catholique de Louvain, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
- Service Universitaire d'Addictologie de Lyon (SUAL), CH Le Vinatier, Bron, France
- Scientific Research and Publication Cell (CRPS), Le Beau Vallon, Namur, Belgium
| | - José C. Perales
- Mind, Brain and Behavior Research Center (CIMCYC), University of Granada, Granada, Spain
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11
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Flack M, Stevens M. Gambling motivation: comparisons across gender and preferred activity. INTERNATIONAL GAMBLING STUDIES 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/14459795.2018.1505936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mal Flack
- College of Health and Human Sciences, Charles Darwin University, Australia
| | - Matt Stevens
- Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Australia
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12
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Cross-national differences in risk preference and individual deprivation: A large-scale empirical study. PERSONALITY AND INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.paid.2018.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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13
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Keough MT, Penniston TL, Vilhena-Churchill N, Michael Bagby R, Quilty LC. Depression symptoms and reasons for gambling sequentially mediate the associations between insecure attachment styles and problem gambling. Addict Behav 2018; 78:166-172. [PMID: 29175293 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2017.11.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2017] [Revised: 11/09/2017] [Accepted: 11/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
One of the central pathways to problem gambling (PG) is gambling to cope with negative moods, which is a cardinal feature of depression. Insecure attachment styles are also etiologically related to depression; and, therefore, by extension, those who are insecurely attached may engage in excessive gambling behaviors to cope with depression. In this study, we aimed to evaluate this and to this end predicted that depression severity and coping motives for gambling would conjointly mediate the relations between insecure attachment styles and PG. Data came from a larger investigation of PG within mood disorders. Participants exhibited a lifetime depressive or bipolar disorder and endorsed a mood episode within the past ten years. Participants (N=275) completed self-report measures during a two-day assessment. Path analysis supported two main indirect effects. First, anxious attachment predicted elevated depression, which in turn predicted increased coping motives for gambling, which subsequently predicted greater PG severity. Second, this double mediational pathway was also observed for avoidant attachment. Results suggest that insecure attachment relates to PG via depressive symptoms and coping-related gambling motives. Mood symptoms and associated gambling motives are malleable and are promising targets of gambling interventions for insecurely attached individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew T Keough
- University of Manitoba, Department of Psychology, 190 Dysart Road, P314 Duff Roblin Building, Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2, Canada.
| | - Trinda L Penniston
- University of Manitoba, Department of Psychology, 190 Dysart Road, P314 Duff Roblin Building, Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2, Canada
| | - Natalie Vilhena-Churchill
- Altum Health, University Health Network, Krembil Discovery Tower, 399, Bathurst St., Toronto, Ontario M5T 2S8, Canada
| | - R Michael Bagby
- University of Toronto, Departments of Psychology and Psychiatry, 1265 Military Trail, Toronto, Ontario M1C 1A4, Canada
| | - Lena C Quilty
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, 100 Stokes Street, Bell Gateway Building, Toronto, Ontario M6J 1H4, Canada; University of Toronto, Department of Psychiatry, 250 College St., Toronto, Ontario M5T 1R8, Canada
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14
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McGreevy PD, Griffiths MD, Ascione FR, Wilson B. Flogging tired horses: Who wants whipping and who would walk away if whipping horses were withheld? PLoS One 2018; 13:e0192843. [PMID: 29466458 PMCID: PMC5821321 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0192843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2017] [Accepted: 01/31/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have cast doubt on the effectiveness of whipping horses during races and this has led to questions concerning its continuing justification. Furthermore, it has been argued that whipping tired horses in racing is the most televised form of violence to animals. The present study used de-identified data from a recent independent Australian poll (n = 1,533) to characterise the 26% of respondents (113 females and 271 males) who support the whipping of racehorses and the 10% of racing enthusiasts in the sample (44 females and 63 males) who would stop watching races and betting on them if whipping were banned. Logistic regression models examining associations between age, gender, and income level of respondents demonstrated that those who support racehorse whipping are significantly more likely to be male. Among racing enthusiasts who would stop watching races and betting on them if whipping were banned, those in the lowest income bracket were over-represented. The more frequently respondents attended races or gambled on them, the more likely they were to agree that horses should be hit with a whip during the normal course of a race. These findings align with previous studies of violence among men and women but may also be attributed to male support of traditional gambling practices. Globally, racing organisations may consider the findings of the present study helpful in their deliberations on the merits of continuing the practice of whipping tired horses in the name of sport. The study might also provide important data for stakeholders who demand that it continues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul D. McGreevy
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Mark D. Griffiths
- International Gaming Research Unit, Psychology Department, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Frank R. Ascione
- Graduate School of Social Work, University of Denver, Denver, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Bethany Wilson
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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15
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Canale N, Vieno A, Lenzi M, Griffiths MD, Borraccino A, Lazzeri G, Lemma P, Scacchi L, Santinello M. Income Inequality and Adolescent Gambling Severity: Findings from a Large-Scale Italian Representative Survey. Front Psychol 2017; 8:1318. [PMID: 28824499 PMCID: PMC5541014 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2017.01318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2017] [Accepted: 07/18/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Studies have shown that problems related to adult gambling have a geographical and social gradient. For instance, adults experiencing gambling-related harms live in areas of greater deprivation; are unemployed, and have lower income. However, little is known about the impact of socioeconomic inequalities on adolescent problem gambling. The main purpose of the present study was to investigate the contextual influences of income inequality on at-risk or problem gambling (ARPG) in a large-scale nationally representative sample of Italian adolescents. A secondary aim was to analyze the association between perceived social support (from family, peers, teachers, and classmates) and ARPG. Methods: Data from the 2013-2014 Health Behavior in School-aged Children Survey (HBSC) Study was used for cross-sectional analyses of ARPG. A total of 20,791 15-year-old students completed self-administered questionnaires. Region-level data on income inequality (GINI index) and overall wealth (GDP per capita) were retrieved from the National Institute of Statistics (Istat). The data were analyzed using the multi-level logistic regression analysis, with students at the first level and regions at the second level. Results: The study demonstrated a North-South gradient for the prevalence of ARPG, with higher prevalence of ARPG in the Southern/Islands/Central Regions (e.g., 11% in Sicily) than in Northern Italy (e.g., 2% in Aosta Valley). Students in regions of high-income inequality were significantly more likely than those in regions of low-income inequality to be at-risk or problem gamblers (following adjustment for sex, family structure, family affluence, perceived social support, and regionale wealth). Additionally, perceived social support from parents and teachers were negatively related to ARPG. Conclusions: Income inequality may have a contextual influence on ARPG. More specifically, living in regions of highest income inequality appeared to be a potential factor that increases the likelihood of becoming an at-risk or problem gambler. Findings of the study suggest that wealth distribution within societies affected by economic policies may indirectly have an influence adolescent gambling behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natale Canale
- Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, University of PadovaPadova, Italy
| | - Alessio Vieno
- Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, University of PadovaPadova, Italy
| | - Michela Lenzi
- Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, University of PadovaPadova, Italy
| | - Mark D. Griffiths
- International Gaming Research Unit, Psychology Department, Nottingham Trent UniversityNottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Alberto Borraccino
- Department of Public Health and Paediatrics, University of TurinTurin, Italy
| | - Giacomo Lazzeri
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, CREPS University of Siena – AOUSSiena, Italy
| | - Patrizia Lemma
- Department of Public Health and Paediatrics, University of TurinTurin, Italy
| | - Luca Scacchi
- Department of Human and Social Sciences, University of Valle d'AostaAosta, Italy
| | - Massimo Santinello
- Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, University of PadovaPadova, Italy
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Sundqvist K, Jonsson J, Wennberg P. Gambling Motives in a Representative Swedish Sample of Risk Gamblers. J Gambl Stud 2017; 32:1231-1241. [PMID: 27038813 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-016-9607-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Motives for gambling have been shown to be associated with gambling involvement, and hence important in the understanding of the etiology of problem gambling. The aim of this study was to describe differences in gambling motives in different subgroups of lifetime risk gamblers, categorized by: age, gender, alcohol- and drug habits and type of game preferred, when considering the level of risk gambling. A random Swedish sample (n = 19,530) was screened for risk gambling, using the Lie/Bet questionnaire. The study sample (n = 257) consisted of the respondents screening positive on Lie/Bet and completing a postal questionnaire about gambling and motives for gambling (measured with the NODS-PERC and the RGQ respectively). When considering the level of risk gambling, motives for gambling were not associated with gender, whereas younger persons gambled for the challenge more often than did older participants. Card/Casino and Sport gamblers played to a greater extent for social and challenge reasons then did Lotto/Bingo-gamblers. EGM-gamblers played more for coping reasons than did Lotto/Bingo gamblers. However, this association turned non-significant when considering the level of risk gambling. Moderate risk gamblers played for the challenge and coping reasons to a greater extent than low risk gamblers motives for gambling differ across subgroups of preferred game and between gamblers with low and moderate risk. The level of risk gambling is intertwined with motives for gambling and should be considered when examining gambling reasons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Sundqvist
- Centre for Social Research on Alcohol and Drugs (SoRAD), Stockholm University, 106 91, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Jakob Jonsson
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, 106 91, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Peter Wennberg
- Centre for Social Research on Alcohol and Drugs (SoRAD), Stockholm University, 106 91, Stockholm, Sweden
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The Temporal Stability and Predictive Ability of the Gambling Outcome Expectancies Scale (GOES): A Prospective Study. J Gambl Stud 2017; 32:923-33. [PMID: 26518686 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-015-9581-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Previous research using the Gambling Outcome Expectancies Scale (GOES; Flack and Morris in J Gambl Stud, 2015. doi: 10.1007/s10899-014-9484-z ) revealed the instrument has excellent psychometric properties and differentially predicts gambling frequency and problem gambling scores. However, like the existing gambling motivation scales, the GOES psychometric properties and predictive utility have not been tested outside of cross sectional studies. The current study used a prospective survey design to redress this issue. Eight hundred and ninety-three participants, drawn from the general community, completed the second wave of the gambling survey. Temporal invariance testing revealed the GOES was reliable. Furthermore, the ability of the GOES to predict gambling behaviour using baseline and concurrent measures of gambling outcome expectancies was demonstrated. Specifically, consistent with the Wave 1 results, the gambling outcome expectancies that reflect diverse reasons for gambling (e.g., social, escape, and money) preferentially predicted gambling frequency whereas the narrower range of emotion focused reasons (e.g., excitement, escape, and ego enhancement) predicted gambling problems. Considered in light of the Wave 1 findings, these results underscore the need for gambling harm minimisation initiatives to take into account the emotion-oriented reasons for gambling.
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Salonen AH, Alho H, Castrén S. Attitudes towards gambling, gambling participation, and gambling-related harm: cross-sectional Finnish population studies in 2011 and 2015. BMC Public Health 2017; 17:122. [PMID: 28122531 PMCID: PMC5267383 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-017-4056-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2016] [Accepted: 01/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Information about public gambling attitudes and gambling participation is crucial for the effective prevention of gambling-related harm. This study investigates female and male attitudes towards gambling, gambling participation, and gambling-related harm in the Finnish population aged 15-74. METHODS Cross-sectional random sample data were collected in 2011 (n = 4484) and 2015 (n = 4515). The data were weighted based on gender, age and region of residence. Attitudes were measured using the Attitudes Towards Gambling Scale (ATGS-8). Gambling-related harms were studied using the Problem Gambling Severity Index and the South Oaks Gambling Screen. RESULTS Attitudes towards gambling became more positive from 2011 to 2015. Female attitudes were generally negative, but nonetheless moved in a positive direction except in age groups under 25. Occasional gambling increased among women aged 18-24. Women aged 18-24 and 45-54 experienced more harms in 2015 than in 2011. Both land and online gambling increased among women aged 65-74. Male attitudes towards gambling were generally positive, and became more positive from 2011 to 2015 in all age groups except 15-17. Weekly gambling decreased among males aged 15-17. Gambling overall increased among males aged 18-24. Gambling several times a week decreased among men aged 35-44 and 45-54, and gambling 1-3 times a month increased in the latter age group. Online gambling increased only among men aged 55-64. CONCLUSIONS Attitudes towards gambling became more positive in all except the youngest age groups. Under-age male gambling continued to decrease. We need to make decision-makers better aware of the continuing growth of online gambling among older people and women's increasing experiences of gambling-related harm. This is vital to ensure more effective prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne H. Salonen
- Department of Tobacco, Gambling and Addiction, National Institute for Health and Welfare, P.O. Box 30, FI-00271 Helsinki, Finland
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Hannu Alho
- Department of Tobacco, Gambling and Addiction, National Institute for Health and Welfare, P.O. Box 30, FI-00271 Helsinki, Finland
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Sari Castrén
- Department of Tobacco, Gambling and Addiction, National Institute for Health and Welfare, P.O. Box 30, FI-00271 Helsinki, Finland
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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Devos G, Challet-Bouju G, Burnay J, Maurage P, Grall-Bronnec M, Billieux J. Adaptation and validation of the Gambling Motives Questionnaire-Financial (GMQ-F) in a sample of French-speaking gamblers. INTERNATIONAL GAMBLING STUDIES 2016. [DOI: 10.1080/14459795.2016.1264080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Gaëtan Devos
- Laboratory for Experimental Psychopathology (LEP), Psychological Sciences Research Institute, Université catholique de Louvain, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Gaëlle Challet-Bouju
- CHU de Nantes, Department of Addictology and Psychiatry, Clinical Investigation Unit ‘Behavioral Addictions and Complex Mood Disorders’, Nantes, France
- EA 4275 SPHERE ‘MethodS for Patients-centered outcomes and HEalth Research’, University of Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Jonathan Burnay
- Psychology and Neuroscience of Cognition Research Unit, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Pierre Maurage
- Laboratory for Experimental Psychopathology (LEP), Psychological Sciences Research Institute, Université catholique de Louvain, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Marie Grall-Bronnec
- CHU de Nantes, Department of Addictology and Psychiatry, Clinical Investigation Unit ‘Behavioral Addictions and Complex Mood Disorders’, Nantes, France
- EA 4275 SPHERE ‘MethodS for Patients-centered outcomes and HEalth Research’, University of Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Joël Billieux
- Laboratory for Experimental Psychopathology (LEP), Psychological Sciences Research Institute, Université catholique de Louvain, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
- Internet and Gambling Disorders Clinic, Department of Adult Psychiatry, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
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Canale N, Vieno A, Griffiths MD. The Extent and Distribution of Gambling-Related Harms and the Prevention Paradox in a British Population Survey. J Behav Addict 2016; 5:204-12. [PMID: 27156382 PMCID: PMC5387771 DOI: 10.1556/2006.5.2016.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives To examine whether the "prevention paradox" applies to British individuals in relation to gambling-related harm. Methods Data were derived from 7,756 individuals participating in the British Gambling Prevalence Survey 2010, a comprehensive interview-based survey conducted in Great Britain between November 2009 and May 2010. Gambling-related harm was assessed using an adapted version of the DSM-IV Pathological Gambling criteria. The previous year's prevalence of problem gamblers was examined using the Problem Gambling Severity Index. Gambling involvement was measured by gambling frequency and gambling participation (gambling volume as expressed by time and money spent gambling). Results The prevalence rates for past-year gambling harms were dependence harm (16.4%), social harm (2.2%), and chasing losses (7.9%). Gambling-related harms were distributed across low- to moderate-risk gamblers (and not limited to just problem gamblers) and were reported by the majority of gamblers who were non-high time and spend regular gamblers than high time and spend regular gamblers. Conclusions The prevention paradox is a promising way of examining gambling-related harm. This suggests that prevention of gambling might need to consider the population approach to minimizing gambling harm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natale Canale
- Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, University of Padova, Italy,Corresponding author: Natale Canale, MSc; Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, University of Padova, Via Venezia, 15-35121 Padova, Italy; E-mail:
| | - Alessio Vieno
- Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, University of Padova, Italy
| | - Mark D. Griffiths
- International Gaming Research Unit, Psychology Division, Nottingham Trent University, United Kingdom
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Impact of Internet gambling on problem gambling among adolescents in Italy: Findings from a large-scale nationally representative survey. COMPUTERS IN HUMAN BEHAVIOR 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2015.12.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Canale N, Vieno A, Pastore M, Ghisi M, Griffiths MD. Validation of the 8-item Attitudes Towards Gambling Scale (ATGS-8) in a British population survey. Addict Behav 2016; 54:70-4. [PMID: 26722993 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2015.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2015] [Revised: 12/09/2015] [Accepted: 12/12/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Public opinions concerning gambling are an important factor in shaping public policy. Little empirical attention has been given to assessing gambling attitudes within the general population. The aim of the present study is to validate the 8-item Attitudes Towards Gambling Scale (ATGS-8) in British individuals and to investigate associations of these attitudes with frequency of gambling and gambling problems. METHODS Data were derived from 7746 individuals participating in the British Gambling Prevalence Survey 2010, a comprehensive interview-based survey conducted in Great Britain between November 2009 and May 2010. Confirmatory factor analysis and separate regression analyses were applied. RESULTS The one-dimensional structure of the ATGS-8 was confirmed in the community sample and by gender. Furthermore, more positive attitudes towards gambling were positively related to frequency of gambling and gambling problems. CONCLUSIONS The present study extends the previous evaluations of the scale by providing detailed evidence for the utility and usefulness of the ATGS-8 in a community sample and across gender. The ATGS-8 is a valid instrument to assess public opinion on gambling among the general population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natale Canale
- Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, University of Padova, Italy.
| | - Alessio Vieno
- Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, University of Padova, Italy
| | | | - Marta Ghisi
- Department of General Psychology, University of Padova, Italy
| | - Mark D Griffiths
- International Gaming Research Unit, Psychology Division, Nottingham Trent University, United Kingdom
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