Gambling and Practice Theory
Gambling is any activity in which something of value is staked on the outcome of an uncertain event. It can include everything from the purchase of a lottery ticket to betting on your favourite team. It is often associated with risk taking, but it can also involve skill and knowledge. Gambling can bring pleasure and excitement, and can even be a way to make money. However, it can also lead to serious problems, such as debt and bankruptcy. Those who struggle with gambling may have trouble stopping, and can experience negative effects such as family, work and social problems.
There are many reasons why people gamble, including boredom, depression, anxiety, stress, and a desire to win big money. Some people use gambling to relieve unpleasant feelings, but it is important to remember that there are healthier ways of dealing with these feelings, such as exercising, spending time with friends who do not gamble, and practicing relaxation techniques. It is also important to remember that gambling can become an addictive behavior, and if you have any concerns about your gambling habits, it is a good idea to seek help.
The majority of people who gamble do so responsibly and find it to be an enjoyable form of entertainment. However, some individuals who gamble develop problems and experience negative consequences, such as financial strain and conflict in relationships. In addition, some individuals are predisposed to developing gambling problems, such as those who have a history of substance abuse or mental health issues. Adolescents, veterans, aging adults and those from minority communities are all at greater risk of developing gambling problems.
Although gambling is a complex social phenomenon, the research literature has largely focused on individual and group factors that can contribute to problem gambling. An emerging approach is to examine gambling from a practice theory perspective. Practice theory recognises that people perform complex and embedded behaviours that are influenced by many different forces, such as norms, rituals, language and discourse, and spaces and places. Practice theory offers a new way to view these processes, and provides an alternative to approaches that limit their focus to individual cognition or behaviour.
If you are struggling with gambling, you can get help by contacting FSAP. An FSAP provider can help you explore your relationship with gambling and connect you to relevant resources. You can request a screening or attend a Let’s Talk session. To schedule a screening, please visit the online request portal. FSAP is dedicated to providing community and support for students, staff and faculty who are struggling with addiction and recovery. For confidential support, call 2-1-1 or visit us at the CUCRC. For additional resources, visit our Alcohol and Drug page.
