For generations, pop culture has influenced public perception of a wide range of behaviors and activities. Everything from books, TV shows, movies, and podcasts can alter the perception of how something is viewed for better or worse. We have seen things like comic books, fantasy stories, drug use, marijuana, and more see their public perception change based on their representation in popular culture. So how is gambling represented in pop culture and how has it changed over the years?
How Representation Matters
For years, movies depicted gamblers and casinos as these illicit underground dens where danger lurked around every corner, keeping the idea of regular gambling somewhat taboo. However, recent developments and movie trends have shifted the focus away from the illicit nature and emphasized the glitz and glamor of the locations.
While films like Casino and the Ocean’s Eleven series still kept the criminal elements and unscrupulous owners, the lifestyles and atmospheres of casinos still get glamorized. Bright lights, happy-looking people, and in the case of the Ocean’s movies, the team pulling off the perfect heist have helped shift the public perception of casinos and gambling at large.
The Fascination With Texas Hold ‘Em
One of the most popular card games in the world remains the Texas Hold ‘Em variation of poker. With ESPN showing the World Series of Poker on the main station, people have become more acquainted with the game, its rules, strategy, and, most importantly, the payouts. Additionally, shows like Celebrity Poker Showdown and other more localized tournaments keep the exposure levels high and keep it in the wider public consciousness.
As poker and gambling get wider exposure, more people lose their inherent bias against the gambling and betting industry. Texas Hold ‘Em has become a gateway for new and inexperienced gamblers because they have seen multiple games on TV and in movies and feel like they understand the game. This belief allows them to believe that they can step into a casino and replicate the results they’ve seen in pop culture.
Projecting Gambling as a Fun Pastime Instead of a Potential Problem
When it comes to the public perception of gambling in pop culture, the potential negative repercussions aren’t discussed nearly as much. Some stories may highlight what happens when the protagonist’s luck turns, but how they recover often doesn’t mirror real-life recovery. You may see these characters make a change that improves their luck or have a quick epiphany that leads them to make a full recovery from their gambling problem. Rarely do these stories delve into the depths of what the recovery process entails.
Simplifying what it takes for someone to recover from their gambling problem can lull people into a false sense of security about how they can respond to an issue with their gambling. If they haven’t seen gamblers in recovery in Atlantic City, NJ, and the type of physical and emotional toll it takes, they may become more likely to dive headfirst into gambling without considering the consequences.
How to Find the Help You Need With a Gambling Problem
While pop culture has made playing blackjack and poker the coolest thing you can do, problem gambling remains a significant danger to people. However, the right gambling treatment program can help problem gamblers get the support they need to get onto the road to recovery. For more information on how to contact gamblers anonymous or find additional resources, 800-GAMBLER is here to help.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to our 24/7 confidential helpline and reach out to us to learn more about how we can help with your ongoing recovery.