Gambling seems to be an ancient human activity. It’s found in almost all cultures and in most parts of the world (Custer & Milt, 1985). Acceptance of gambling varies from culture to culture. Yet, in most countries, gambling is open and common. In some countries, it is a national pastime. Gambling exists in almost every culture. Problem gambling (PG) does too (Raylu & Oei, 2002). More than 90 countries have legalized gambling (Lesieur & Rosenthal, 1991). PG is a problem for nations and the world (Lamberton & Oei, 1997). For example, platforms like National Casino have made gambling easier. They are part of this global trend.
Cultural Variations and Demographic Influences in Problem Gambling
PG occurs when gambling is out of control. It causes problems in people’s social, personal, and interpersonal lives. Several terms have been used in the gambling literature to state PG. This paper, like the Raylu and Oei (2002) review, will use PG more broadly. It means gambling that meets the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual IV (DSM-IV) criteria. The DSM-IV is from the American Psychiatric Association [APA], 1994. It will also cover people with gambling problems who do not meet the criteria.
The Importance of Exploring Cultural Variables in Gambling Research
Studying how culture affects starting and keeping gambling is key for two reasons. First, a major limitation in prevalence studies is that they ignore culture. This idea comes from Betancourt & Lopez (1993). Betancourt and Lopez (1993) reviewed cultural research in psychology. They found that those who tried cross-cultural research did not study culture. These factors may influence behavior. We assume cultural factors are a big part of the ethnic group. But, we don’t directly test possible ones (Betancourt & Lopez, 1993). Such can also be said for the gambling/PG literature. Also, gambling research has already blamed several factors. These include thoughts, personality, biology, feelings, and family. They cause and keep gambling (Raylu & Oei, 2002). These factors can’t explain the cultural differences. There are differences between gambling and PG in different cultures. Certain cultural factors may also play a role. They affect an individual’s decision to start and keep gambling.
Addressing Cultural Gaps in Gambling Research: A Systematic Review and Future Directions
The gambling literature has big cultural gaps. We need to review the cultural variations in gambling and PG rates. We also need to discuss the possible cultural factors. They may play a role in starting and keeping gambling. We need to do this before doing relevant studies in this area. To fill this gap in the literature, this paper aims to do four things:
- It will see if certain cultures have high rates of gambling and PG.
- It will discuss how culture affects mental health. This includes factors like beliefs and values.
- It will cover how to combine these factors with Western ones.
- It will look at future research and recommendations in this area.
Conclusion
In short, gambling is common worldwide. Problem gambling (PG) is a big issue in many cultures. Understanding the cultural factors that influence gambling is crucial. Current research often ignores these cultural aspects, which can impact gambling behaviors.
This article says we need to study how different cultures experience gambling and PG. Examining cultural beliefs, values, and behaviors can help us understand why people gamble. It explains why they start and why they keep at it. Including these cultural factors in current research on personality, thoughts, and biology will help us better prevent and treat problem gambling.
Future studies should focus on these cultural influences. This will help create more inclusive ways to manage problem gambling.
