Across Australia, researchers are working hard to stop problem gambling rates from climbing. While many researchers are focused on treatment, others are taking a look at preventative measures that target young people. Recently, the Maths Association of Victoria has received generous funding to run a program that uses Math and English to raise awareness of gambling harms among schoolchildren.
According to the Sydney Morning Herald, the Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation has awarded Dr Ian Lowe over $48 000 for problem gambling research. He will use the money to fund a study at six secondary schools across the state, which will teach young people about the realities of gambling.
Dr Lowe recognises that it is illegal for people under the age of 18 to gamble in Australia; however, more and more young people are being exposed to gambling nowadays. Smartphone apps allow users of all ages to wager play-money on casino games, and gambling advertisements are aired during sports matches. So, the idea of gambling is becoming normalised and it is important for prevention techniques to be targeted at young people.
In fact, 80% of teens in Victoria have gambled with real money at some point in their lives. Up to 4% of these young people may already be classed as problem gamblers. It is a growing problem, and it is important that it is addressed. The new research project will determine whether or not education on certain topics will help students make more informed decisions about gambling.
The study will use maths and probability to help students understand their odds of winning while gambling while the English portion will focus on the power of advertising in the gambling industry. “The fact is most of them aren’t taught anything about it — they just don’t understand,’’ Dr Lowe says.
“There are all sorts of misconceptions, all of which can be blown apart by simply an analytical approach”
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