Windsor Professor Explores Why Problem Gamblers Different
A psychology professor at the University of Windsor is trying to determine what factors differentiate gamblers who control their hobby and problem gamblers. By interviewing people who bet using any of a variety of forms, including online gambling, casino gaming, lotteries, slots, and sports betting, Alan Scoboria hopes to better understand why some have compulsions beyond control, while others find limits easy to follow.
Scoboria is searching for people to participate in Thoughts About Gambling, a study which will feature interviews with gamblers who have not suffered difficulties due to wagering.
Scoboria said, "We have a long-established program that studies problem gambling here at the university and this will help us examine how people think about gambling, and the differences between problem gamblers and non-problem gamblers."
Gambling and its proliferation around Windsor have been a major political topic of discussion over the last several years. Online casinos, land casinos, bingo halls and Windsor Raceway all offer gambling alternatives to locals.
Scoboria asserted that the true number of problem gamblers is hard to figure, as many keep their issue hidden. Treatment is readily available, but frequently not taken advantage of.
The study will consist of questionaires as well as a two-hour personal interview. Participants will be paid sixty dollars each. Results of Scoboria's study should be available by spring of 2009.
