UK: School curriculum to include gambling addiction education
In a practical study conducted in the UK, it was found that teaching students about the dangers and risks associated with gambling can significantly reduce problematic gambling behavior. The organizers behind the initiative are now pushing for this educational program to become mandatory.
The non-biased British think tank Demos conducted trial educational sessions at various secondary schools. The project was supported financially by the GambleAware organization. During these sessions, students learned about the hazards of gambling and where to seek help if needed. They were also taught how to assess the risks involved in gambling, identify manipulation techniques used by gambling companies, and control impulsive behavior. The educational curriculum took up four lessons in total, affecting 650 students across multiple schools.
Before the project started, 41% of the students reported gambling in the past year. This figure was then compared with that of a control group who did not receive any educational lessons. This data revealed a notable decrease in gambling for money among the students who took part in the educational project. The proportion of those playing card games with real stakes was also found to be lower by half. These results prompted the study's originators to strongly suggest that politicians should include gambling education as part of the curriculum, particularly within the realm of social studies.
The Rise of Gambling Addiction
Gambling addiction has become a growing issue in the UK. Relaxed legislation over the past decade has resulted in increased advertisement for gambling, fueling the growth of the country's advanced gaming industry. However, this has also led to problems, particularly among those in lower socio-economic situations. Gambling addiction has become widespread, with betting shops being heavily concentrated in poorer areas and creating unrealistic expectations of life-changing winnings.
Considering that minors are routinely educated about the risks associated with drugs, alcohol, and sex, the lack of emphasis on gambling is puzzling. Unaddressed gambling addiction can devastate individuals, their relationships, and the economy. Preventative measures are preferred over costly treatments. Simone Vibert, a social scientist at Demos, comments on the issue: "Gambling addiction can destroy someone's life, their friends, their family, and the economy. Education is always preferable to later treatment."
Although gambling is only legal for adults in the UK, it's estimated that at least 25,000 young people are at risk of addiction - regularly gambling and engaging in risky behavior. One in six children aged between 11 and 15 admitted to gambling in the past week in a recent study. Organizations like GambleAware are actively trying to anticipate these issues through preventative measures. However, the widespread advertising aimed at both adults and children is challenging to counter:
Gambling advertising and the normalization of gambling is a legitimate cause for concern. We're delighted to have supported this project to discover what can help children understand gambling and the associated risks, as well as provide strategies for dealing with potential harm. - Dr. Jane Rigbye, GambleAware Education Officer
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Source: www.onlinecasinosdeutschland.com
