Responsible Casino Ads Bring Problem Gambling Victims Forward
Workers at Florida problem gambling help lines say they are getting half again as many calls as four years ago, but that doesn't mean compulsive gambling is spreading. Aggressive advertising and educational campaigns by casinos have resulted in more problem gamblers seeking help, say experts.According to the Institute for Research on Gambling Disorders, about 1 percent of the population is susceptible to pathological gaming. This figure is confirmed by Keith Whyte of the National Council on Problem Gambling. Both groups agree that the figure remains fairly constant, even as more gambling becomes easily available.
How, then, to explain the increase of calls to the help line run by the Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling, which saw calls rise from 3000 in 2006 to over 4400 this past year? The inclusion of such numbers as 888-ADMIT-IT in casino advertising gives those previously without a venue for help a chance to reach out.
Chris Reilly of the IRGD told the Ft. Lauderdale Sun-Sentinel that remarks by a Gamblers Anonymous spokesman were incorrect. While the GA representative says Florida compulsive gambling is ready to explode, Reilly notes that scientific studies provide more accurate information than counting phone calls.
"Increased phone calls may seem to untrained volunteers, observing without an academic background in uncontrolled circumstances, as indicating problem gambling is growing," says OCA gaming analyst Sherman Bradley. "But since studies prove compulsive gambling numbers are remaining constant, we can suggest that the greater numbers means a more effective educational program is working."
