'Playing Social Roulette' a new study into Gambling Addiction by Dr. Crystal Fulton

Dr. Tom O'Brien

New study explores the social impact of gambling in Ireland Playing Social Roulette is a new study led by Dr. Crystal Fulton, School of Information and Library Studies, University College Dublin, to explore the growing phenomenon of gambling in Ireland. Funded through the Irish Research Council with support from the Departments of Social Protection and Justice and Equality, the study explores all aspects of gambling, in particular, its impact on the lives of those who participate and on community and society. Currently, an overall picture of who gambles, how and why they gamble is not available in Ireland. Casinos and new technologies such as Internet or mobile phone gambling offer new opportunities to gamble, in addition to more traditional forms of gambling. Because gambling may lead to addiction for some, along with financial loss and social alienation, understanding perceptions of gambling and the triggers for problem gambling may critically facilitate development of services and prevention of for those most vulnerable to problem gambling. Input is sought from critical stakeholder groups to gather their perspectives: 1) volunteer organisations and service providers who assist gamblers and those affected by gambling; 2) individuals who gamble, ranging from occasional gamblers to compulsive gamblers; 3) families and friends affected by gambling; 4) the gambling industry and its role in ensuring social responsibility. Interviews are ongoing. Gamblers and their families and friends are currently sought for participation. To participate, contact Dr. Crystal Fulton, University College Dublin Email: [e-mail]