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Reid A, McGhie N, Nguyen THL, Yadav U, Cullen P, Booth L, Bestman A. Exploring the feasibility of a gambling harm screening model in general practice and community service settings in Fairfield: a pilot study. Aust J Prim Health 2024; 30:PY23208. [PMID: 38354727 DOI: 10.1071/py23208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gambling is a growing public health issue in Australia. However, limited research has examined the role of primary health care and social services in routine screening for gambling harm in Australia. This research aimed to explore the enablers and barriers to implementing a co-designed gambling screening model in Fairfield, New South Wales - an area with high gambling expenditure. METHODS A co-designed gambling screening and referral model for GP and community-based organisations was implemented in Fairfield in 2020. Follow-up interviews were conducted with nine health care professionals who implemented the screening in 130 patients. Thematic analysis generated key barriers and enablers for implementation of this model. RESULTS Key enablers for the screening model implementation included structural factors (alignment of the screening model with current work), process factors and staffing factors (staff empowerment). However, we also noted process factors as a barrier to implementation, particularly the referral pathway following screening. Other barriers included social and structural factors, such as the complexity of gambling harm and project funding. CONCLUSIONS Embedding routine screening in primary and community care settings can play a role in treating, reducing and preventing gambling-related harm, and reducing stigma in Fairfield and beyond. Additionally, screening models such as this provide health systems with clear evidence on the level of gambling harm in their community (particularly important in culturally and linguistically diverse communities who are underrepresented in research). This evidence is important for addressing system-level drivers of harm and advocating for political reform to reduce the impact of gambling on communities.
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Cooray N, Ho C, Bestman A, Adams S, Nassar N, Keay L, Brown J. Exploring the Potential of a Behavior Theory-Informed Digital Intervention for Infant Fall Prevention: Mixed Methods Longitudinal Study. JMIR Pediatr Parent 2024; 7:e47361. [PMID: 38170580 PMCID: PMC10794959 DOI: 10.2196/47361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Falls are the most common hospitalized injury mechanism in children aged ≤1 years, and currently, there are no targeted prevention interventions. The prevention of falls in children of this age requires changes in the behavior of their caregivers, and theoretically informed digital behavior change interventions (DBCIs) may provide a unique mechanism for achieving effective intervention. However, user acceptance and the ability of DBCIs to effect the required changes in behavior are critical to their likelihood of success. OBJECTIVE This study aims to evaluate a behavior theory-informed digital intervention developed following a user-centered approach for user experience, the potential for this intervention to prevent infant falls, and its impact on behavioral drivers underpinning fall risk in young children. METHODS Parents of infants aged <1 year were recruited and asked to use the intervention for 3 months. A pre-post longitudinal design was used to examine the change in the potential to reduce the risk of falls after a 3-month exposure to the intervention. Postintervention data on behavioral drivers for fall prevention, user acceptability, and engagement with the app were also collected. Interviews were conducted to explore user experiences and identify areas for further improvement of the intervention. RESULTS A total of 62 parents participated in the study. A statistically significant effect on the potential to reduce falls was observed after the intervention. This effect was higher for new parents. Parents agreed that the intervention targeted most of the target behavior drivers. The impact of behavior drivers and intervention on the potential for fall prevention had a positive correlation. The intervention demonstrated good levels of acceptability. Feedback from participants was mostly positive, and the primary area identified for further improvement was widening the scope of the intervention. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrated the promise of a newly developed digital intervention to reduce the risk of infant falls, particularly among new parents. It also showed a positive influence of the DBCI on the drivers of parental behaviors that are important for fall reduction among infants. The acceptability of the app was high, and important insights were gained from users about how to further improve the app.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nipuna Cooray
- The George Institute for Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales Sydney, Barangaroo, Australia
| | - Catherine Ho
- The George Institute for Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales Sydney, Barangaroo, Australia
| | - Amy Bestman
- The George Institute for Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales Sydney, Barangaroo, Australia
| | - Susan Adams
- The George Institute for Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales Sydney, Barangaroo, Australia
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, Australia
| | - Natasha Nassar
- Children's Hospital at Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Lisa Keay
- The George Institute for Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales Sydney, Barangaroo, Australia
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Julie Brown
- The George Institute for Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales Sydney, Barangaroo, Australia
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Buse K, Bestman A, Srivastava S, Marten R, Yangchen S, Nambiar D. What Are Healthy Societies? A Thematic Analysis of Relevant Conceptual Frameworks. Int J Health Policy Manag 2023; 12:7450. [PMID: 38618792 PMCID: PMC10699824 DOI: 10.34172/ijhpm.2023.7450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 04/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While support for the idea of fostering healthy societies is longstanding, there is a gap in the literature on what they are, how to beget them, and how experience might inform future efforts. This paper explores developments since Alma Ata (1978) to understand how a range of related concepts and fields inform approaches to healthy societies and to develop a model to help conceptualize future research and policy initiatives. METHODS Drawing on 68 purposively selected documents, including political declarations, commission and agency reports, peer-reviewed papers and guidance notes, we undertook qualitative thematic analysis. Three independent researchers compiled and categorised themes describing the domains of a potential healthy societies approach. RESULTS The literature provides numerous frameworks. Some of these frameworks promote alternative endpoints to development, eschewing short-term economic growth in favour of health, equity, well-being and sustainability. They also identify values, such as gender equality, collaboration, human rights and empowerment that provide the pathways to, or underpin, such endpoints. We categorize the literature into four "components": people; places; products; and planet. People refers to social positions, interactions and networks creating well-being. Places are physical environments-built and natural-and the interests and policies shaping them. Products are commodities and commercial practices impacting population health. Planet places human health in the context of the 'Anthropocene.' These components interact in complex ways across global, regional, country and community levels as outlined in our heuristic. CONCLUSION The literature offers little critical reflection on why greater progress has not been made, or on the need to organise and resist the prevailing systems which perpetuate ill-health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kent Buse
- The George Institute for Global Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Amy Bestman
- Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Robert Marten
- The Alliance for Health Policy and Systems Research, World Health Organization (WHO), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Sonam Yangchen
- The Alliance for Health Policy and Systems Research, World Health Organization (WHO), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Devaki Nambiar
- Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- The George Institute for Global Health, New Delhi, India
- Prasanna School of Public Health, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
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Nambiar D, Bestman A, Srivastava S, Marten R, Yangchen S, Buse K. How to Build Healthy Societies: A Thematic Analysis of Relevant Conceptual Frameworks. Int J Health Policy Manag 2023; 12:7451. [PMID: 38618791 PMCID: PMC10699821 DOI: 10.34172/ijhpm.2023.7451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 04/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND As the Sustainable Development Goals deadline of 2030 draws near, greater attention is being given to health beyond the health sector, in other words, to the creation of healthy societies. However, action and reform in this area has not kept pace, in part due to a focus on narrower interventions and the lack of upstream action on health inequity. With an aim to guide action and political engagement for reform, we conducted a thematic analysis of concepts seeking to arrive at healthy societies. METHODS This paper drew on a qualitative thematic analysis of a purposive sample of 68 documents including political declarations, reports, peer reviewed literature and guidance published since 1974. Three independent reviewers extracted data to identify, discuss and critique public policy levers and 'enablers' of healthy societies, the "how." RESULTS The first lever concerned regulatory and fiscal measures. The second was intersectoral action. The final lever a shift in the global consensus around what signifies societal transformation and outcomes. The three enablers covered political leadership and accountability, popular mobilization and the generation and use of knowledge. CONCLUSION Documents focused largely on technical rather than political solutions. Even as the importance of political leadership was recognized, analysis of power was limited. Rights-based approaches were generally neglected as was assessing what worked or did not work to pull the levers or invest in the enablers. Frameworks typically failed to acknowledge or challenge prevailing ideologies, and did not seek to identify ways to hold or governments or corporations accountable for failures. Finally, ideas and approaches seem to recur again over the decades, without adding further nuance or analysis. This suggests a need for more upstream, critical and radical approaches to achieve healthy societies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devaki Nambiar
- The George Institute for Global Health, New Delhi, India
- Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Prasanna School of Public Health, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Amy Bestman
- Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Robert Marten
- The Alliance for Health Policy and Systems Research, World Health Organization (WHO), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Sonam Yangchen
- The Alliance for Health Policy and Systems Research, World Health Organization (WHO), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Kent Buse
- The George Institute for Global Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
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Kakoti M, Nambiar D, Bestman A, Garozzo-Vaglio D, Buse K. How to embed equity in the conduct of health research: lessons from piloting the 8Quity tool. Health Policy Plan 2023; 38:571-578. [PMID: 36760178 PMCID: PMC10089062 DOI: 10.1093/heapol/czad010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Global health research reflects and can either perpetuate or challenge the complex power hierarchies and inequities that characterize our systems for health and the societies in which they are situated. The imperative to embed equity in health research aligns with broader efforts globally to promote equitable partnerships among researchers, and between researchers and the communities potentially impacted by their research, or with whom knowledge is co-produced. We describe lessons learnt from piloting a heuristic and diagnostic tool for researchers to assess integration of equity considerations into their research practices. The '8Quity' tool comprises eight domains of equity we developed which roughly correspond to the typical stages in the research process-from team formation to capacity-strengthening, research ethics and governance to relationships with research partners, participants, and stakeholders beyond the project period. Resources that detail how this may be done on a practical level are also shared, corresponding to each of the eight domains. We acknowledge that tools like 8Quity may be helpful, even necessary, but are insufficient for the broader societal change required to ensure equity in the research enterprise. However, by firmly setting intentions and accountabilities within our research practices, we can (as researchers) play a role, however modest, in turning the tide of the injustices that leave some communities behind.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Devaki Nambiar
- The George Institute for Global Health India.,University of New South Wales Australia.,Prasanna School of Public Health, Manipal Academy of Higher Education India
| | - Amy Bestman
- The George Institute for Global Health India
| | | | - Kent Buse
- The George Institute for Global Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
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Qasim R, Shah H, Sultan A, Yaqoob M, Haroon R, Mistry SK, Bestman A, Yousafzai MT, Yadav UN. Exploring the beliefs and experiences with regard to COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and acceptance in a slum of Karachi, Pakistan. Health Promot Int 2022; 37:6775365. [PMID: 36300701 PMCID: PMC9620344 DOI: 10.1093/heapro/daac140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19-related misinformation and vaccine hesitancy is a widespread global concern and a recognized public health problem in Pakistan. The current research sought to explore the beliefs and experiences with regard to COVID-19, including vaccine hesitancy and acceptance, in a slum of Karachi, Pakistan. This study used an interpretivist epistemological approach for data collection and employed in-depth interviews (IDIs) and focus group discussions (FGDs) to explore the themes of interest. IDIs and FDGs were conducted in the local language (Pashtu) and Urdu, using semi-structured interview guides. A hybrid thematic analysis approach (use of both inductive and deductive coding) was used to analyze the data. We identified two key themes: the first related to vaccine hesitancy and refusal and included the role of personal belief systems, vaccine mistrust and public perceptions in hesitancy; the second related to vaccine acceptance and included knowledge and awareness about the vaccine and trusted sources of information. Religious beliefs and cultural norms influenced attitudes toward COVID-19 and vaccination. This study also found that awareness about the COVID-19 vaccine in this sample was influenced by sex, educational status and socioeconomic status. Participants with good health literacy and those from healthcare backgrounds were more likely to share views that indicated vaccine acceptance. The findings of this study are being used to co-design a comprehensive intervention to dispel COVID-19 misinformation and vaccine hesitancy across a range of stakeholders such as youths, community leaders, family members, faith leaders, schools and community-based local organizations in Pakistan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rubina Qasim
- Dow Institute of Nursing and Midwifery, Dow University of Health Sciences , Karachi , Pakistan
| | - Hakim Shah
- Indus College of Nursing and Midwifery , Karachi , Pakistan
| | - Aqsa Sultan
- Department of Public Health, Torrens University , Sydney , Australia
| | - Muhammad Yaqoob
- Dow Institute of Nursing and Midwifery, Dow University of Health Sciences , Karachi , Pakistan
| | - Rukhsana Haroon
- Dow Institute of Nursing and Midwifery, Dow University of Health Sciences , Karachi , Pakistan
| | - Sabuj Kanti Mistry
- Centre for Primary Health Care and Equity, University of New South Wales , Sydney Australia
| | - Amy Bestman
- The George Institute for Global Health , Sydney , Australia
| | - Mohammad Tahir Yousafzai
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Aga Khan University , Karachi , Pakistan
- Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney , Australia
| | - Uday Narayan Yadav
- Centre for Primary Health Care and Equity, University of New South Wales , Sydney Australia
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, The Australian National University, ACT , Canberra , Australia
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Bhandari TR, Paudel G, Bestman A, Thapa TB, Gwayali CP, Ghimire B, Sharma S, Yadav UN. Use of Psychoactive Substance and its Associated Factors among School Adolescents in Rupandehi District of Nepal. J Nepal Health Res Counc 2021; 19:474-480. [PMID: 35140417 DOI: 10.33314/jnhrc.v19i3.3405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Psychoactive substance use among adolescents has been identified as an important health issue in Nepal. Therefore, this study examined the psychoactive substance use and factors associated with its use among adolescent students in the Rupandehi district of Nepal. METHODS A school-based cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2017 to July 2018 with 460 school students aged between 15 to 19 years across sampled public and private schools in the Rupandehi district of Nepal. Structured interview schedule was used to collect information on psychoactive substance use. The generalized estimating equation was used to identify the factors associated with the use of psychoactive substances. RESULTS Over a quarter (27.4%) of school-going adolescents used at least one type of psychoactive substance. Commonly used psychoactive substance included tobacco products (59.3%) followed by cannabis (55.6%), marijuana (35.8%), hashish (23.5%), alcohol (22.2%), heroin (18.5%), nitrogen tablets (14.8%), sulfa (13.6%) and opium (13.6%), respectively. Being male (AOR=2.0, 95% CI: 1.19-3.36), having peers (AOR=1.8, 95% CI: 1.13-3.03) or family members (AOR=2.2, 95% CI: 1.40-3.54) that used psychoactive substances and father's education level (AOR=2.5, 95% CI: 1.05-5.78) were significantly associated with the psychoactive substance use. CONCLUSIONS This study identified that over a quarter of school-going adolescents reported the use of at least one illegal psychoactive substance. This study provided details on the extent of behaviours, and can be used to develop a comprehensive prevention and control program. Such programs should address the socio-cultural factors that enable substance use and address gaps in knowledge to prevent and control of psychoactive substance use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tulsi Ram Bhandari
- School of Health and Allied Sciences, Pokhara University, Pokhara, Nepal
| | - Grish Paudel
- Center for Research Policy and Implementation, Biratnagar, Nepal
| | - Amy Bestman
- The George Institute of Global Health, UNSW Medicine, Australia
| | | | | | | | - Shanta Sharma
- Devdaha Medical College and Research Institute Pvt. Ltd, Rupandehi, Nepal
| | - Uday Narayan Yadav
- Centre for Primary Health Care and Equity, University of New South Wales, Australia
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Mistry SK, Ali AM, Yadav UN, Huda MN, Ghimire S, Bestman A, Hossain MB, Reza S, Qasim R, Harris MF. Difficulties faced by older Rohingya (forcibly displaced Myanmar nationals) adults in accessing medical services amid the COVID-19 pandemic in Bangladesh. BMJ Glob Health 2021; 6:e007051. [PMID: 34903566 PMCID: PMC8671847 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2021-007051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND COVID-19 has seriously disrupted health services in many countries including Bangladesh. This research aimed to explore whether Rohingya (forcefully displaced Myanmar nationals) older adults in Bangladesh faced difficulties accessing medicines and routine medical care services amid this pandemic. METHODS This cross-sectional study was conducted among 416 Rohingya older adults aged 60 years and above residing in Rohingya refugee camps situated in the Cox's Bazar district of Bangladesh and was conducted in October 2020. A purposive sampling technique was followed, and participants' perceived difficulties in accessing medicines and routine medical care were noted through face-to-face interviews. Binary logistic regression models determined the association between outcome and explanatory variables. RESULTS Overall, one-third of the participants reported difficulties in accessing medicines and routine medical care. Significant factors associated with facing difficulties accessing medicine included feelings of loneliness (adjusted OR (AOR) 3.54, 95% CI 1.93 to 6.48), perceptions that older adults were at the highest risk of COVID-19 (AOR 3.35, 95% CI 1.61 to 6.97) and required additional care during COVID-19 (AOR 6.89, 95% CI 3.62 to 13.13). Also, the notable factors associated with difficulties in receiving routine medical care included living more than 30 min walking distance from the health centre (AOR 3.57, 95% CI 1.95 to 6.56), feelings of loneliness (AOR 2.20, 95% CI 1.25 to 3.87), perception that older adults were at the highest risk of COVID-19 (AOR 2.85, 95% CI 1.36 to 5.99) and perception that they required additional care during the pandemic (AOR 4.55, 95% CI 2.48 to 8.35). CONCLUSION Many Rohingya older adults faced difficulties in accessing medicines and routine medical care during this pandemic. This call for policy-makers and relevant stakeholders to re-assess emergency preparedness plans including strategies to provide continuing care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabuj Kanti Mistry
- ARCED Foundation, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Centre for Primary Health Care and Equity, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- BRAC James P Grant School of Public Health, BRAC University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Department of Public Health, Daffodil International University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Arm Mehrab Ali
- ARCED Foundation, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Global Research and Data Support, Innovations for Poverty Action, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Uday Narayan Yadav
- Centre for Primary Health Care and Equity, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Research School of Population Health, Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Md Nazmul Huda
- School of Health Sciences, Western Sydney University, Campbeltown, New South Wales, Australia
- The School of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, Independent University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Saruna Ghimire
- Department of Sociology and Gerontology and Scripps Gerontology Center, Miami University, Oxford, Ohio, USA
| | - Amy Bestman
- The George Institute for Global Health, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Md Belal Hossain
- BRAC James P Grant School of Public Health, BRAC University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- School of Population and Public Health, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Sompa Reza
- Institute of Nutrition and Food Science, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Rubina Qasim
- Dow Institute of Nursing and Midwifery, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Mark F Harris
- Centre for Primary Health Care and Equity, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Bestman A, Thomas SL, Randle M, Pitt H, Cassidy R, Daube M. 'Everyone knows grandma'. Pathways to gambling venues in regional Australia. Health Promot Int 2020; 35:1273-1282. [PMID: 31872239 DOI: 10.1093/heapro/daz120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In regional Australia, families (including children), attend community venues that contain gambling products, such as electronic gambling machines (EGMs), for a range of non-gambling reasons. However, there is a gap in research that seeks to understand how these venues may become embedded into family social practices. Drawing on Bourdieu's concepts of habitus and cultural capital, this paper aimed to explore factors that influence family decisions to attend venues and perceptions of risk associated with children's exposure to gambling products. Face-to-face qualitative interviews were conducted with 31 parents who attended community gambling venues with their children, in New South Wales, Australia. Families attended venues for three key reasons, first because of the influence of others in their social networks, second for regular social activities and third because of structural factors such as a lack of alternative, affordable, family friendly environments in their local area. Despite recognizing the harm associated with EGMs, parents distanced themselves from EGM harm with all parents perceiving venues to be an appropriate space for families. Research in this study indicates that family social practices within venues affect perceptions of risk associated with community gambling venues. The impact of these practices on longer-term health requires more investigation by public health and health promotion researchers and practitioners. Health promotion initiatives should consider identifying alternative sources of support and/or developing alternative social spaces for families in regional communities that do not contain gambling products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Bestman
- Institute for Health Transformation, Faculty of Health, School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia.,The George Institute for Global Health, UNSW Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Samantha L Thomas
- Institute for Health Transformation, Faculty of Health, School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Anthropology, Goldsmiths, University of London, London, UK
| | - Melanie Randle
- Faculty of Business, School of Management, Operations and Marketing, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Hannah Pitt
- Institute for Health Transformation, Faculty of Health, School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rebecca Cassidy
- Department of Anthropology, Goldsmiths, University of London, London, UK
| | - Mike Daube
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Bentley, WA, Australia
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Bestman A, Lloyd J, Hawkshaw B, Kabir J, Harris E. The Rohingya Little Local: exploring innovative models of refugee engagement in Sydney, Australia. Aust J Prim Health 2020; 26:367-373. [DOI: 10.1071/py20045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The Rohingya community living in the City of Canterbury-Bankstown in Sydney have been identified as a priority population with complex health needs. As part of ongoing work, AU$10000 was provided to the community to address important, self-determined, health priorities through the Can Get Health in Canterbury program. Program staff worked with community members to support the planning and implementation of two community-led events: a soccer (football) tournament and a picnic day. This paper explores the potential for this funding model and the effect of the project on both the community and health services. Data were qualitatively analysed using a range of data sources within the project. These included, attendance sheets, meeting minutes, qualitative field notes, staff reflections and transcripts of focus group and individual discussions. This analysis identified that the project: (1) enabled community empowerment and collective control over funding decisions relating to their health; (2) supported social connection among the Australian Rohingya community; (3) built capacity in the community welfare organisation –Burmese Rohingya Community Australia; and (4) enabled reflective practice and learnings. This paper presents an innovative model for engaging with refugee communities. Although this project was a pilot in the Canterbury community, it provides knowledge and learnings on the engagement of refugee communities with the health system in Australia.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND There has been an increased international policy focus on the factors that may contribute to, and prevent, the normalization of gambling for young people. However, there is still limited research, which investigates the role of advertising in shaping young people's gambling attitudes and consumption intentions. METHODS Mixed methods study of 111 young people aged 11-16 years recruited from community basketball stadiums in Victoria, Australia, between May and July 2018. Interviewer-assisted surveys investigated recall and awareness of sports betting brands, perceptions of promotional strategies, intention to gamble, and reasons for betting on particular sports. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and χ2 tests. Thematic analyses were used to interpret qualitative responses. RESULTS Young people had high recall and awareness of advertising, with most able to name at least one betting brand (n = 90, 81.1%), and many demonstrating a high awareness of the distinct characteristics (such as colors and appeal strategies) of different brands. A fifth of young people (n = 25, 22.5%) expressed intentions to gamble at 18 years, with boys significantly more likely than girls to state they would gamble (χ2 = 10.90, p = .001). Young people perceived that advertising strategies associated with inducement promotions would be the most influential in encouraging individuals to gamble. While many young people took promotions at face value, there was evidence that some were able to critically engage with and challenge the messages within marketing. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Current regulatory structures appear to be ineffective in limiting young people's recall and awareness of gambling advertising. Lessons from tobacco control support the application of precautionary approaches as a more effective way to limit young people's development of positive gambling attitudes and behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Nyemcsok
- Centre for Population Health Research, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC, Australia
| | - Samantha L. Thomas
- Centre for Population Health Research, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC, Australia,Corresponding author: Samantha L. Thomas; Centre for Population Health Research, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood, VIC 3125, Australia; Phone: +61 3 924 45453; E-mail:
| | - Amy Bestman
- Centre for Population Health Research, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC, Australia
| | - Hannah Pitt
- Centre for Population Health Research, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC, Australia
| | - Mike Daube
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Bentley, WA, Australia
| | - Rebecca Cassidy
- Department of Anthropology, Goldsmiths, University of London, London, UK
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Bestman A, Thomas SL, Randle M, Pitt H, Daube M. Exploring children's experiences in community gambling venues: A qualitative study with children aged 6‐16 in regional New South Wales. Health Promot J Austr 2018; 30:413-421. [DOI: 10.1002/hpja.211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2018] [Accepted: 09/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Amy Bestman
- Centre for Population Health ResearchSchool of Health and Social DevelopmentFaculty of HealthDeakin University Geelong Vic. Australia
| | - Samantha L. Thomas
- Centre for Population Health ResearchSchool of Health and Social DevelopmentFaculty of HealthDeakin University Geelong Vic. Australia
| | - Melanie Randle
- School of Management, Operations and MarketingFaculty of BusinessUniversity of Wollongong Wollongong NSW Australia
| | - Hannah Pitt
- Centre for Population Health ResearchSchool of Health and Social DevelopmentFaculty of HealthDeakin University Geelong Vic. Australia
| | - Mike Daube
- Faculty of Health SciencesCurtin University Bentley WA Australia
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Thomas SL, Bestman A, Pitt H, Cassidy R, McCarthy S, Nyemcsok C, Cowlishaw S, Daube M. Young people's awareness of the timing and placement of gambling advertising on traditional and social media platforms: a study of 11-16-year-olds in Australia. Harm Reduct J 2018; 15:51. [PMID: 30340584 PMCID: PMC6194705 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-018-0254-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2018] [Accepted: 09/07/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research has demonstrated that the promotion of gambling, particularly within sport, may have a significant impact on positively shaping young people's attitudes towards gambling. While some governments have implemented restrictions to limit young people's exposure to gambling advertising, few studies have investigated where young people recall seeing gambling advertising, and whether they perceive that advertising restrictions have gone far enough in reducing exposure to these promotions. METHOD Mixed methods, interviewer-assisted surveys were conducted with n = 111 young people aged 11-16 years, who were self-reported fans of basketball in Victoria, Australia. Interviews were conducted at basketball stadiums between May and July 2018. The study assessed media viewing patterns; recall and awareness of the timing, placement, and content of gambling advertising; the impact of gambling advertising restrictions; and attitudes towards sporting organisations' roles in the promotion of gambling. RESULTS The majority of young people recalled seeing gambling advertising on television (n = 101, 91.0%), with most recalling advertising within sporting matches or games (n = 79, 71.2%). Most young people recalled seeing gambling advertising in the early evening before 8:30 pm (n = 75, 67.6%). Just over half of young people described seeing gambling advertisements on social media (n = 61, 55.0%), and over a third (n = 40, 36.0%) recalled gambling advertising on YouTube, predominantly before watching sporting or gaming videos. The majority stated that they continued to watch sport after 8:30 pm (n = 93, 83.7%), which is when restrictions on advertising in live sport in Australia end. The majority (n = 88, 79.3%) stated that there were too many gambling advertisements in sport. Three quarters believed that sporting codes should do more to prevent young people from being exposed to advertising for gambling in sport (n = 84, 75.7%). CONCLUSIONS There is now a clear body evidence that current regulatory systems for gambling advertising are ineffective, with further restrictions urgently needed across a range of media channels to prevent exposure to promotions that may encourage young people's interest and involvement in gambling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha L Thomas
- Centre for Population Health Research, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia.
| | - Amy Bestman
- Centre for Population Health Research, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Hannah Pitt
- Centre for Population Health Research, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Rebecca Cassidy
- Department of Anthropology, Goldsmiths, University of London, London, UK
| | - Simone McCarthy
- Centre for Population Health Research, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Christian Nyemcsok
- Centre for Population Health Research, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Sean Cowlishaw
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- Population Health Science, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Mike Daube
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Bentley, Australia
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McCarthy S, Thomas SL, Randle M, Bestman A, Pitt H, Cowlishaw S, Daube M. Women's gambling behaviour, product preferences, and perceptions of product harm: differences by age and gambling risk status. Harm Reduct J 2018; 15:22. [PMID: 29690876 PMCID: PMC5916584 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-018-0227-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2017] [Accepted: 03/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Women’s participation in, and harm from gambling, is steadily increasing. There has been very limited research to investigate how gambling behaviour, product preferences, and perceptions of gambling harm may vary across subgroups of women. Methods This study surveyed a convenience sample of 509 women from Victoria and New South Wales, Australia. Women were asked a range of questions about their socio-demographic characteristics and gambling behaviour. Focusing on four gambling products in Australia—casino gambling, electronic gambling machines (EGMs), horse betting, and sports betting—women were asked about their frequency of participation, their product preferences, and perceptions of product harms. The sample was segmented a priori according to age and gambling risk status, and differences between groups were identified using Chi-square tests and ANOVAs. Thematic analysis was used to interpret qualitative data. Results Almost two thirds (n = 324, 63.7%) of women had engaged with one of the four products in the previous 12 months. Compared to other age groups, younger women aged 16–34 years exhibited a higher proportion of problem gambling, gambled more frequently, and across more products. While EGMs were the product gambled on most frequently by women overall, younger women were significantly more likely to bet on sports and gamble at casinos relative to older women. Qualitative data indicated that younger women engaged with gambling products as part of a “night out”, “with friends”, due to their “ease of access” and perceived “chance of winning big”. There were significant differences in the perceptions of the harms associated with horse and sports betting according to age and gambling risk status, with younger women and gamblers perceiving these products as less harmful. Conclusions This study highlights that there are clear differences in the gambling behaviour, product preferences, and perceptions of product harms between subgroups of women. A gendered approach will enable public health researchers and policymakers to ensure that the unique factors associated with women’s gambling are taken into consideration in a comprehensive public health approach to reducing and preventing gambling harm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone McCarthy
- Centre for Population Health Research, Faculty of Health, School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Samantha L Thomas
- Centre for Population Health Research, Faculty of Health, School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Melanie Randle
- Faculty of Business, School of Management, Operations and Marketing, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia
| | - Amy Bestman
- Centre for Population Health Research, Faculty of Health, School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Hannah Pitt
- Centre for Population Health Research, Faculty of Health, School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sean Cowlishaw
- Phoenix Australia Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.,Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Mike Daube
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
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Bestman A, Thomas SL, Randle M, Pitt H, Daube M. Attitudes towards community gambling venues and support for regulatory reform: an online panel study of residents in New South Wales, Australia. Harm Reduct J 2018; 15:15. [PMID: 29606138 PMCID: PMC5879606 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-018-0218-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2017] [Accepted: 03/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Harmful gambling has been identified as an important public health issue that affects individuals, families and the broader community. One gambling product, electronic gambling machines (EGMs), has been associated with significant gambling harm in Australia. There has been limited research that has explored community perceptions of EGMs and attitudes towards reform. This study, conducted in NSW, Australia, aimed to explore community use of EGM venues (clubs and hotels containing EGMs), attitudes towards EGMs and whether the use of these venues influenced attitudes towards EGM reform. Methods An online survey was conducted with 500 adults aged 16 years and over, representative of the population for age and gender. Discrete choice and open-ended questions were used to gather data on gambling behaviours, use of and attitudes towards EGMs and EGM venues and support for gambling harm reduction measures. Results Three quarters of participants had visited an EGM venue in the previous year. Participants who had attended such venues were significantly more likely to use EGMs at least once per month. Participants attended EGM venues for a range of reasons including use of non-gambling facilities such as restaurants, the social aspects of the venue and ease of access to the venue. Some participants also attended EGM venues specifically for the gambling facilities. Most participants identified some negative impacts of EGMs for local communities and were supportive of measures to reduce the number of EGMs and prevent children's exposure to EGMs in such venues. Conclusions This study shows a high level of support for EGM reform amongst both individuals who attend EGM venues and also those who do not. There is potential for government to further regulate EGMs and the environments where they are located.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Bestman
- Centre for Population Health Research, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia.
| | - Samantha L Thomas
- Centre for Population Health Research, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Melanie Randle
- School of Management, Operations and Marketing, Faculty of Business, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia
| | - Hannah Pitt
- Centre for Population Health Research, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Mike Daube
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
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Pitt H, Thomas SL, Bestman A, Randle M, Daube M. Do betting advertisements contain attention strategies that may appeal to children? An interpretative content analysis. Health Promot J Austr 2018; 29:265-273. [PMID: 30511481 DOI: 10.1002/hpja.12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2017] [Accepted: 10/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
ISSUE ADDRESSED Concerns have been raised about the expansion of sports betting marketing and the impact it may have on children's gambling attitudes and behaviours. This study aimed to investigate the content of Australian betting advertisements to identify if they contained specific attention strategies that have been identified by tobacco, alcohol and gambling researchers as having particular appeal to children. METHODS An interpretative content analysis of 91 advertisements from 11 corporate bookmakers was conducted. A search of specific attention strategies that may appeal to adults, but also have been demonstrated in the public health literature as having particular appeal for children was used to develop a coding framework. This framework was then applied to analyse the advertisements. Descriptive statistics were used to generate quantitative data and qualitative illustrations were used to provide examples of the strategies found within the advertisements. RESULTS On average there were 7.6 attention strategies found per advertisement. The most common attention strategies were music (n = 80), voiceovers (n = 79) and catchy slogans (n = 78). There were some attention strategies that related specifically to betting, such as technology, and risk-reducing promotions. CONCLUSION This research has demonstrated that the content of betting advertisements contains attention strategies that, based on the research findings from other areas of public health, may have particular appeal for children. SO WHAT?: This research provides important evidence which could encourage researchers, regulators and policy makers to consider changes to current advertising regulations, to ensure children are protected from the potentially engaging and harmful attention strategies present in betting advertisements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Pitt
- Centre for Population Health Research, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Vic., Australia
| | - Samantha L Thomas
- Centre for Population Health Research, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Vic., Australia
| | - Amy Bestman
- Centre for Population Health Research, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Vic., Australia
| | - Melanie Randle
- School of Management, Operations and Marketing, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Mike Daube
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
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Pitt H, Thomas SL, Bestman A, Daube M, Derevensky J. What do children observe and learn from televised sports betting advertisements? A qualitative study among Australian children. Aust N Z J Public Health 2017; 41:604-610. [DOI: 10.1111/1753-6405.12728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2017] [Revised: 07/01/2017] [Accepted: 08/01/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Pitt
- Centre for Population Health Research, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health; Deakin University; Victoria
| | - Samantha L. Thomas
- Centre for Population Health Research, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health; Deakin University; Victoria
| | - Amy Bestman
- Centre for Population Health Research, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health; Deakin University; Victoria
| | - Mike Daube
- Faculty of Health Sciences; Curtin University; Western Australia
| | - Jeffrey Derevensky
- International Centre for Youth Gambling Problems and High Risk Behaviours; McGill University; Montreal Canada
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Thomas SL, Randle M, Bestman A, Pitt H, Bowe SJ, Cowlishaw S, Daube M. Public attitudes towards gambling product harm and harm reduction strategies: an online study of 16-88 year olds in Victoria, Australia. Harm Reduct J 2017; 14:49. [PMID: 28743300 PMCID: PMC5526244 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-017-0173-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2017] [Accepted: 07/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Gambling has quickly emerged as an important global public health issue. With new technologies used to develop high intensity gambling products and promotions aimed at driving consumption, public health organisations and researchers, community groups, and politicians have argued for a range of regulatory and education measures aimed at reducing gambling harm. However, there has been limited research seeking to understand community perceptions of the harms associated with gambling products and environments, and the level of community support for strategies designed to prevent and reduce gambling harm. Methods An online study of 500 adolescents and adults (aged 16 and over) was conducted with a representative sample (by age and gender) of individuals who were current residents in the state of Victoria, Australia. Participants were asked a range of questions about their own gambling behaviours, with the Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI) used as a measure of problem gambling. Participants were asked about their perceptions of harms associated with electronic gambling machines (EGMs), sports betting, horse betting, and casino gambling. They were also asked about the extent to which they agreed or disagreed with gambling harm reduction strategies related to marketing and promotions, restrictions on gambling products and venues, and public education campaigns. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics and paired t tests, with thematic analysis used to interpret qualitative responses to open-ended questionnaire items. Results More than one third (n = 201, 40.2%) of participants were at risk of experiencing some level of harm from gambling (PGSI ≥ 1), with 83 participants (16.6%) recording scores that indicated problem gambling (PGSI ≥ 8). One in five participants gambled on EGMs at least monthly (n = 100, 20.0%). Those who gambled on sports did so frequently, with nearly 1 in 5 gambling on sport at least once a month (n = 87, 17.4%). Over half of the sample rated casino gambling and EGMs as very harmful, while one third rated these forms of gambling as extremely harmful. Over one third of the sample rated horse and sports betting as very harmful, with one in five rating these products as extremely harmful. There was strong agreement with the need to ban gambling advertising during children’s viewing hours, during sporting matches and at sporting venues. The majority of participants agreed with reducing and restricting EGMs, and providing more public education for both adults and children about the negative consequences from gambling. Conclusions The findings suggest a strong perception in the Victorian community that gambling products are harmful. While governments have been reluctant to implement a comprehensive approach to reducing gambling harm, this study reveals significant community support for a range of harm reduction and prevention measures associated with gambling products. Public health practitioners can use this evidence in advocating for a comprehensive public health approach to reducing the harms associated with gambling promotions and products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha L Thomas
- Centre for Population Health Research, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia.
| | - Melanie Randle
- School of Management, Operations and Marketing, Faculty of Business, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia
| | - Amy Bestman
- Centre for Population Health Research, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Hannah Pitt
- Centre for Population Health Research, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Steven J Bowe
- Deakin Biostatistics Unit, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Sean Cowlishaw
- School of Social and Community Health, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Mike Daube
- Faculty of Health Science, Curtin University, Bentley, Australia
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Bestman A, Thomas S, Randle M, Pitt H. Children's attitudes towards Electronic Gambling Machines: an exploratory qualitative study of children who attend community clubs. Harm Reduct J 2017; 14:20. [PMID: 28482912 PMCID: PMC5422940 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-017-0148-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2016] [Accepted: 04/18/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background This research sought to explore whether children’s visual and auditory exposure to Electronic Gambling Machines (EGMs) in community clubs contributed to shaping their attitudes towards these types of potentially harmful gambling products. This research also examined children’s knowledge of EGM behaviours in adults within their social networks. Methods Qualitative interviews were conducted with a convenience sample of 45 children in a regional area of New South Wales, Australia. All children had attended a club that contained gambling products in the previous 12 months. Face to face, semi-structured interviews explored a range of themes including recall of and attitudes towards EGMs. Data were analysed using thematic techniques. Four social learning theory concepts—attentional, retention, reinforcement and reproduction—were used to explore the range of processes that influenced children’s attitudes towards EGMs. Results In relation to attentional factors, children recalled having seen EGMs in clubs, including where they were located, auditory stimuli and the physical appearance of EGMs. Children also retained information about the behaviours associated with gambling on EGMs, most prominently why adults gamble on these machines. Attitudes towards EGMs were reinforced by the child’s knowledge of adults EGM behaviours. Some older children’s attitudes were positively reinforced by the perception that profits from the machines would go back to their local sporting teams. Finally, while some children expressed a desire to reproduce EGM behaviours when they were older, others were concerned about the negative consequences of engaging in this type of gambling. Conclusions Despite policies that try to prevent children’s exposure to EGMs in community venues, children have peripheral exposure to EGMs within these environments. This exposure and children’s awareness of gambling behaviours of adults appear to play a role in shaping their attitudes towards EGMs. While further research should explore the range of other ancillary factors that contribute to children’s knowledge about these machines, policy makers should consider more effective strategies to prevent children from being exposed to EGMs in community venues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Bestman
- Centre for Population Health Research, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood, Victoria, 3125, Australia.
| | - Samantha Thomas
- Centre for Population Health Research, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood, Victoria, 3125, Australia
| | - Melanie Randle
- School of Management, Operations and Marketing, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia
| | - Hannah Pitt
- Centre for Population Health Research, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood, Victoria, 3125, Australia
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Pitt H, Thomas SL, Bestman A, Daube M, Derevensky J. Factors that influence children's gambling attitudes and consumption intentions: lessons for gambling harm prevention research, policies and advocacy strategies. Harm Reduct J 2017; 14:11. [PMID: 28212685 PMCID: PMC5316223 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-017-0136-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2016] [Accepted: 02/02/2017] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Harmful gambling is a public health issue that affects not only adults but also children. With the development of a range of new gambling products, and the marketing for these products, children are potentially exposed to gambling more than ever before. While there have been many calls to develop strategies which protect children from harmful gambling products, very little is known about the factors that may influence children's attitudes towards these products. This study aimed to explore children's gambling attitudes and consumption intentions and the range of consumer socialisation factors that may influence these attitudes and behaviours. METHODS Children aged 8 to 16 years old (n = 48) were interviewed in Melbourne, Australia. A semi-structured interview format included activities with children and open-ended questions. We explored children's perceptions of the popularity of different gambling products, their current engagement with gambling, and their future gambling consumption intentions. We used thematic analysis to explore children's narratives with a focus on the range of socialising factors that may shape children's gambling attitudes and perceptions. RESULTS Three key themes emerged from the data. First, children's perceptions of the popularity of different products were shaped by what they had seen or heard about these products, whether through family activities, the media (and in particular marketing) of gambling products, and/or the alignment of gambling products with sport. Second, children's gambling behaviours were influenced by family members and culturally valued events. Third, many children indicated consumption intentions towards sports betting. This was due to four key factors: (1) the alignment of gambling with culturally valued activities; (2) their perceived knowledge about sport; (3) the marketing and advertising of gambling products (and in particular sports betting); and (4) the influence of friends and family. CONCLUSIONS This study indicates that there is a range of socialisation factors, particularly family and the media (predominantly via marketing), which may be positively shaping children's gambling attitudes, behaviours and consumption intentions. There is a need for governments to develop effective policies and regulations to reduce children's exposure to gambling products and ensure they are protected from the harms associated with gambling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Pitt
- Centre for Population Health Research, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood, Victoria 3125 Australia
| | - Samantha L. Thomas
- Centre for Population Health Research, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood, Victoria 3125 Australia
| | - Amy Bestman
- Centre for Population Health Research, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood, Victoria 3125 Australia
| | - Mike Daube
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
| | - Jeffrey Derevensky
- International Centre for Youth Gambling Problems and High Risk Behaviours, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
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Pitt H, Thomas SL, Bestman A. Initiation, influence, and impact: adolescents and parents discuss the marketing of gambling products during Australian sporting matches. BMC Public Health 2016; 16:967. [PMID: 27620167 PMCID: PMC5020565 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-016-3610-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2016] [Accepted: 08/30/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Harmful gambling is a significant public health issue. Alongside the rapid diversification of gambling products, are rapid increases in the marketing for specific types of gambling products, such as online wagering. While concern has been raised about the impact of gambling promotions during sporting matches on the gambling beliefs and behaviours of adolescents, very little research has explored adolescents’ and parents’ attitudes towards the marketing of gambling products within sport. Methods A qualitative study was conducted with 59 family groups comprising of at least one parent and one adolescent (14–18 years old) in Victoria, Australia. Parents and adolescents were interviewed separately and asked questions relating to their gambling attitudes and behaviours. They were then brought together, and advertising reception techniques were utilised to prompt discussions about the marketing of gambling during sport. A thematic approach to analysis was used, constantly comparing similarities and differences between and across groups. Results Three main themes emerged. First, was initiation of sport as a platform for the promotion of gambling. Adolescents perceived that the use of embedded promotions (for example during the match) and the use of athletes in gambling promotions were significant mechanisms for creating an alignment between gambling companies and sporting teams and codes. Second, was the influence of marketing messages in creating a perception that gambling was always accessible, and was an integral part of the sporting experience. Third was the impact of marketing messages on adolescent’s discourses about sport. Parents described that they had noticed that wagering, and ‘odds’ discussions, had become embedded in adolescents narratives about sporting matches. Discussion and conclusions Gambling marketing during sport has significantly increased. While the gambling industry states that it does not aim to intentionally target young people, adolescents are increasingly aware of the relationship between gambling and sport. Future research should explore the impacts and influence of gambling promotions during sport on the gambling attitudes and consumption intentions of adolescents. Effective public health policy is needed to develop comprehensive regulatory frameworks to protect young people from unnecessary exposure to the marketing for this potentially harmful adult product.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Pitt
- Centre for Population Health Research, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia.
| | - Samantha L Thomas
- Centre for Population Health Research, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Amy Bestman
- Centre for Population Health Research, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
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Pitt H, Thomas SL, Bestman A, Stoneham M, Daube M. “It's just everywhere!” Children and parents discuss the marketing of sports wagering in Australia. Aust N Z J Public Health 2016; 40:480-486. [DOI: 10.1111/1753-6405.12564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2015] [Revised: 03/01/2016] [Accepted: 04/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Pitt
- Centre for Population Health Research, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health; Deakin University; Victoria
| | - Samantha L. Thomas
- Centre for Population Health Research, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health; Deakin University; Victoria
| | - Amy Bestman
- Centre for Population Health Research, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health; Deakin University; Victoria
| | - Melissa Stoneham
- Public Health Advocacy Institute of Western Australia; Curtin University
| | - Mike Daube
- Public Health Advocacy Institute of Western Australia; Curtin University
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Bestman A, Thomas SL, Randle M, Thomas SDM. Children's implicit recall of junk food, alcohol and gambling sponsorship in Australian sport. BMC Public Health 2015; 15:1022. [PMID: 26438080 PMCID: PMC4595000 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-015-2348-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2014] [Accepted: 09/24/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In Australia, sport is saturated by the promotion of junk food, alcohol and gambling products. This is particularly evident on player jerseys. The effect of this advertising on children, who are exposed to these messages while watching sport, has not been thoroughly investigated. The aim of this research study was to investigate: (1) the extent to which children implicitly recalled shirt sponsors with the correct sporting team; (2) whether children associated some types of sponsors with certain sporting codes more than others; and (3) whether age of the children influenced the correct recall of sponsoring brands and teams. Method This experimental study conducted in New South Wales, Australia used projective techniques to measure the implicit recall of team sponsorship relationships of 85 children aged 5–12 years. Participants were asked to arrange two sets of magnets – one which contained sporting teams and one which contained brand logos – in the manner deemed most appropriate by them. Children were not given any prompts relating to sporting sponsorship relationships. Results Three quarters (77 %) of the children were able to identify at least one correct shirt sponsor. Children associated alcohol and gambling brands more highly with the more popular sporting code, the National Rugby League compared to the Australian Football League sporting code. Results showed that age had an effect on number of shirt sponsors correctly recalled with 9–12 year olds being significantly more likely than 5–8 year olds to correctly identify team sponsors. Conclusions Given children’s ability to implicitly recall shirt sponsors in a sporting context, Australian sporting codes should examine their current sponsorship relationships to reduce the number of unhealthy commodity shirt sponsors. While there is some regulation that protects children from the marketing of unhealthy commodity products, these findings suggest that children are still exposed to and recall these sponsorship relationships. Results suggest that the promotion of unhealthy commodity products during sporting matches is contributing to increased awareness amongst children of unhealthy commodity brands. Further investigation is required to examine the extent and impact of marketing initiatives during televised sporting matches on children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Bestman
- School of Health and Society, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia. .,Australian Health Services Research Institute, Faculty of Business, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia.
| | - Samantha L Thomas
- School of Health and Society, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia. .,Australian Health Services Research Institute, Faculty of Business, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia. .,School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Melanie Randle
- Australian Health Services Research Institute, Faculty of Business, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia. .,School of Management, Operations and Marketing, Faculty of Business, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia.
| | - Stuart D M Thomas
- School of Health and Society, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia. .,Legal Intersections Research Centre, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia.
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