Problem Gambling Public Awareness Campaigns in North America. A Report Submitted to: Ontario Substance Abuse Bureau by Wynne Resources, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada

Date
1999-10
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Ontario Substance Abuse Bureau
Abstract
Over the past two decades gambling has emerged as one of the most popular forms of entertainment and recreation throughout North America. In fact, gambling has probably been tried by more people than any other form of recreation and entertainment activity. For most individuals gambling is a harmless activity with no adverse effects. However, for a small but significant group of people, gambling is problematic and adversely effects every aspect of their lives. Problem gambling public awareness campaigns (PACs) are employed throughout North America to heighten awareness and educate community members about problem gambling. Today, PACs are being developed and delivered by government agencies, gaming operators and non-government organizations (NGOs) in Canada and the United States. As part of the government’s prevention strategy to mitigate problem gambling in Ontario, the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care plans to implement a campaign that is intended to increase citizens’ awareness and knowledge of this serious public health issue. The purpose of this project is to examine existing North American problem gambling public awareness campaigns, with a view to providing the Ontario Substance Abuse Bureau (OSAB) with detailed information and recommendations for designing and implementing an effective public awareness campaign that will meet the needs of the Province of Ontario.
Description
© Queen's Printer for Ontario, 1999. Reproduced with permission.
Keywords
Problem Gambling -- North America, Gambling -- Prevention
Citation