Gambling today

Lotteries, scratchcards, greyhounds, fruit machines, casinos, horse-racing, bingo, football pools...we could go on. The point is, there are many, many ways in which we can gamble today. And with technology changing as quickly as it is we can take part in each of these activities from the comfort of our own homes, through the Internet or interactive television, or just by picking up the phone. Sounds exciting doesn't it? It can be, but it can also be very destructive.

Definition of gambling

Actually there is no single, clear cut definition of what gambling is but it is widely agreed that;

• Two or more people agree to take part in the activity (usually an operator and the person who wishes to gamble)
• Normally money (the 'stake') is paid by the loser to the winner
• The outcome is uncertain
• The result is determined (partly) by chance
• Participation is an active experience but can be avoided by not taking part

What's in it for me? The motivation to gamble

Ok, so we all understand that gambling offers you the chance of winning money or prizes, but have you considered some of the other reasons why we might choose to gamble?

Risk taking

It is human nature to feel excited when taking risks and the positive feeling gained from gambling is no different. "Will my numbers come up?" "Will my team win?" The sense of anticipation creates a natural high, an adrenalin rush, a feeling that very many of us seek when looking for fun and entertainment. A feeling that some people believe they cannot live without.

Escapism

The gambling environment can provide an escape from everyday life. Whether it be the glitzy casino environment, a loud and exciting amusement arcade or even an online betting company, for the time that we are taking part we can be surrounded by different people, different sounds and emotions, all of which stimulate and arouse our senses.

Glamorous

The media and advertising often portray a stylish, sexy, fashionable image of gambling. In film and TV we see characters enjoying a night at the casino or an afternoon at the races. There is often a suggestion of 'high society' and attending at 'a place to be seen'.

Social

Gambling is accepted as part of this country's culture and as such is widely particpated in (with varying frequency) by the majority of the population. Some young people are introduced to gambling by learning to play card games with their parents at home, maybe we go the bingo with friends on a Friday night or meet after school at the amusement arcade.

The National Lottery

The National Lottery is the most popular form of gambling in the UK. The 1999 British Gambling Prevalence Study recorded that 65% of the population had played on the National Lottery in the last year.

Knowing that the majority of the population participate in the National Lottery, both the National Lottery Commission and Camelot work with GamCare to ensure the highest levels of social responsibility and player protection.