5 Problem Gambling
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Keith Dowding
Abstract
In the past government pursued a moralistic and paternalistic policy with regard to gambling. However, in many countries, governments have relaxed regulations, whilst not treating gambling quite like other goods. This relaxation of regulations benefits many people who like to gamble, but has led to a growing issue of problem gamblers and addicts: gambling harms not only their welfare, but also that of their families. This chapter examines the issue of problem gambling, and how the gambling industry both exploits and also tries to help them. It argues that whilst government has recognized problem gambling, it could focus regulation more directly, given our knowledge of how people become addicted and what sort of gambling machines cause the greatest problems. Using Norway as a case study, the chapter demonstrates how specific regulations can have a big effect.
Abstract
In the past government pursued a moralistic and paternalistic policy with regard to gambling. However, in many countries, governments have relaxed regulations, whilst not treating gambling quite like other goods. This relaxation of regulations benefits many people who like to gamble, but has led to a growing issue of problem gamblers and addicts: gambling harms not only their welfare, but also that of their families. This chapter examines the issue of problem gambling, and how the gambling industry both exploits and also tries to help them. It argues that whilst government has recognized problem gambling, it could focus regulation more directly, given our knowledge of how people become addicted and what sort of gambling machines cause the greatest problems. Using Norway as a case study, the chapter demonstrates how specific regulations can have a big effect.
Kapitel in diesem Buch
- Front Matter i
- Contents v
- List of Tables vi
- Acknowledgements vii
- Preface ix
- Responsibility 1
- Gun Crime 25
- Obesity 45
- Homelessness 69
- Problem Gambling 91
- Recreational Drugs Policy 113
- Government Responsibility 135
- Notes 169
- Sources 171
- Index 193
Kapitel in diesem Buch
- Front Matter i
- Contents v
- List of Tables vi
- Acknowledgements vii
- Preface ix
- Responsibility 1
- Gun Crime 25
- Obesity 45
- Homelessness 69
- Problem Gambling 91
- Recreational Drugs Policy 113
- Government Responsibility 135
- Notes 169
- Sources 171
- Index 193
