Problem gambling is an issue that plagues gamblers from all walks of life. The properties of the gambling experience are universally appealing to those who see it as a means to increase their income substantially. However, the opposite is often what ends up happening. It should be made more aware that while problem gambling is global, certain factors play into higher concentrations of impacted players.
A Look Into Demographic-Based Impact
While there have been multiple studies on how income, specifically income gaps, can drive the average gambler to problematic playing, there is little being done to focus on communities asking for help but are being ignored. One of the current subgroups with growing concern over problem gambling is within the Asian communities. This includes Chinese, Vietnamese, Filipino, Korean, and Cambodian peoples.
Problem Gambling and the Asian Community: The Information We Do Have
It has fallen on compassionate social workers to take up the cause of canvassing these areas as best they can to help determine statistics that have been ignored for so long. One of the first studies in 1999 found that out of the over 1,800 who took the survey in San Francisco’s Chinatown, 70% of them claimed gambling as the most prominent problem facing their neighborhood. This prompted an additional survey, this time based on individual activity, that yielded results of 21% stating they have a gambling disorder and can’t control their gambling urges. An additional 16% were self-proclaimed problem gamblers, which meant their gambling was having a negative impact on their life in some way.
Why This Matters
An in-depth study on a smaller focus group of Asian community members found that out of the 268 interviewed, the knowledge they had regarding gambling and the problems it can create was on par with other ethnic groups, meaning there isn’t a problem with lack of insight. This is just one of the reasons there is a push for more research into problem gambling in Asian communities, as the root cause is still unknown in a way that is measurable and actionable.
No matter where you come from or where you are now, problem gamblers — as well as their loved ones — are strongly encouraged to contact 800-GAMBLER today to find the help and resources they need.
Sources:
https://www.asian-nation.org/gambling.shtml