The Perceptions of Macao Undergraduates Regarding Help Websites for Problem Gambling

摘要: IntroductionMany young people are increasingly engaged in gambling (Welte et al., 2008). A survey conducted Macao 2013 showed that the participation rate for those 22 to 29 age group was around 49 percent (ISCG, 2014). Another survey, also Macao, 6.6 of students aged 12 had gambled online. Among them, 10.7 and 25 were problem pathological gamblers respectively (Wong, 2010). When start at a age, they likely persist over time (Griffiths, 1995). They have higher likelihood becoming (Winters 2005). Problem tend gamble more than can afford run into debts. As result, often experience anxiety, poor mental health other psychological social problems. may suicidal thoughts (Ledgerwood 2005).When trouble, not be sure where turn help as fearful confiding their parents or elders (Kelsey, surf Internet look because it is convenient place do so anonymously (Lee, 2011). Very little known, however, about types available There research perceptions regarding online organizations. published this area, tended address Western contexts.Gambling has evolved rapidly many parts Asia. Macao's revenue, example, surpassed Las Vegas Strip (Cheung, 2007). The demographics majority from mainland China (Steffen, 2008) proportion increasing (Leung, 2009). need provide Chinese gamblers, therefore, very pressing (Zeng, 2009; Emier, Hence, purpose study understand people, specifically Macau undergraduates, websites gambling. specific objectives follow:(1) determine services gambling,(2) examine preference undergraduates choice organisations, and(3) gather comments/suggestions on websites.Research BackgroundHelp with service provided who affected by gambling; whether themselves individuals closely associated them. Many fun consider activity (Loo Traditionally, been regarded something serious requiring special attention treatment. With commercialisation industry (Hsu, 2006), fallen trap heavy compulsive excitement bear hopes rich, despite losing money (Vong, 2007).With awareness minimise harm done gambling, there growing concern availability Unlike approach treating psychiatric condition, view lack self-control (Luk & Bond, 1992). In Asian countries, treatment typically involves counselling - areas such managing emotions, controlling impulsive behaviour, expenditure. encouraged participate activities distract them However, due traditional emphasis 'saving face' (Raylu 2008), reluctant meet counsellors organised …