While studies on problem gambling prevalence in ethnic communities are limited, there is evidence to suggest that the post-migration integration and settlement process includes multiple risk factors related to problem gambling. Culture also has a significant role to play in the development and manifestation of gambling problems.
The hidden nature of problem gambling is compounded by issues such as shame and stigma, lack of awareness of services, reliance on family support, a disposition towards the use of personal control in overcoming excessive behaviour, and a reluctance to approach mainstream services because of language and cultural differences.
Service providers face a range of challenges in developing appropriate prevention and treatment models, including:
- How can prevention strategies take into account cultural beliefs, values and practices?
- How can barriers to service access be removed or mitigated?
- How should treatment modalities address cultural considerations and multi-faceted post-migration and settlement issues?
The problem gambling stream of Diversity in Health 2010 will provide a space for problem gambling services, community health service, multicultural agencies and policy-makers to share current practice and explore the future of problem gambling treatment and prevention.
Conference content
Plenary: Monday 7 June
Problem gambling and culturally inclusive treatment
Paper presentations
Working with client belief systems (7 June)
Culturally targeted health promotion (7 June)
Innovative service models (8 June)
Sponsor
The Problem Gambling stream is brought to you by the Department of Justice's Office of Gaming and Racing.