Course Description 32

This workshop will give you an introduction to gambling and how it has become a serious problem in our society. During the four weeks of this workshop participants will learn and understand what gambling is and the various types of gamblers there are. They will also learn the various forms of gambling that’s is out there. Participants will also learn the phases of gambling and the characteristics of the gambler. We will also discuss how gambling affects the family as well. We will end with learning and understanding the various treatments available for a person with a gambling problem and the family members.

There is a big need for professionals in the addiction field to have an understanding of the seriousness of gambling addiction and how it is affecting our clients and our society today. In 1978 only 2 states had legalized Gambling. As of 2001 only 3 states had not legalized gambling. 38 states have Lotteries and 35 States have off track betting. Studies have shown that 86% of Americans gamble in some form. This does not mean that 86% have a problem with gambling. At the end of this workshop you will have a better understanding of who is considered to be a problem gambler. Studies have also shown that problem gambling is higher in areas where legalized gambling has been around for long periods time. Up to 5 million Americans may have a significant gambling problem, 2 million may be a pathological gambler, and 3 million may be a problem gambler. The cost of Pathological and Problem gambling has now soared to nearly half the annual cost of drug abuse in the United States.

So at the end of this workshop you will have an introduction to the gambling problem we now face. You will know the difference between the five types of gamblers, you will learn and understand the difference between action and escape gamblers. And the three phases of compulsive gamblers. (Winning, Losing and Desperation phase) Participants will also learn the characteristics of a pathological gambler. You will also look at how the family is affected by gambling and we will look at the profile of the female and male significant others. We will also look at the profile of a child of a compulsive gambler. Lastly you will understand the various treatments available for both the gamblers and their families. And review the warning signs of potential gambling and the gambling lingo to look out for in your clients. We will also look at the screening tools that are available to help you assess a person with a potential gambling addiction.

This four week course requires 8 hours of work over its duration.

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