MGHP
has completed the first Australian study on the impacts of problem gambling
within refugee communities.
The
study looked at both the settlement pressures experienced by recently-arrived
refugee communities, and the attitudes held by these communities towards
gambling, problem gambling and help seeking.
Liberian,
Somali, Iraqi Muslim and Sudanese Dinka communities were profiled.
Although
strong religious or cultural taboos to gambling existed in all communities,
length of stay in Australia and exposure to gambling appeared to have a greater
influence on the emergence of gambling behaviours. The two longest-established
groups - Somalis and Iraqi Muslims - reported a higher exposure to gambling.
Target
communities were reluctant to use mainstream counselling, preferring to seek
advice from family, friends or community leaders. Issues of trust,
confidentiality, language and culture were cited as reasons for this
preference. The research also identified a general lack of understanding of the
nature and purpose of counselling - many participants believed it was only for
individuals with severe mental health problems.
Although
problem gambling appears to be at an embryonic stage for each community, the
lack of awareness of Australian gambling practices and available services
suggests that there is a need for early intervention and prevention programs.
The
study was funded by Office of Gaming and Racing, Department of Justice.
Download the complete Problem
Gambling in New and Emerging Communities report .