Psychological aspects of gambling behaviour: An Australian psychological society position paper

Gambling has always held a prominent place in the Australian cultural ethos . However, recent legislative changes have resulted in the expansion of new and existing forms of gambling within the community. This trend has met wi th stringent criticism from various community sectors, primarily health, we lfare and Church organisations who express concern over the deleterious con sequences produced by excessive gambling behaviour. This paper describes th e extent of gambling within the Australian community and its social accepta nce as a form of recreation. It recognises that, for psychological and soci ological reasons, certain groups may be at greater risk for developing gamb ling problems and that a further proportion may experience impaired control over their behaviour leading to severe personal and familial distress incl uding suicide and family and:marital breakdown. Why people persist at gambl ing and the psychological processes leading to impaired control is poorly u nderstood. Psychologists have a major role to play in research, therapy, an d community education, and in guiding social policy development.