Problem Gambling in Non-English Speaking Background Communities in Queensland, Australia: A Qualitative Exploration

Abstract

This paper provides an overview of qualitative research into problem gambling among non-English speaking background (NESB) communities in Queensland, Australia. The focus for this pilot study was the Chinese, Greek and Vietnamese communities. Using qualitative methodologies, this community-based research explored the motivations for gambling, and the impacts of problem gambling upon individuals and communities. Findings indicate that problem gambling is evident in each of the communities of study, but the issue is characterised by a pervasive sense of denial. Gambling is an issue of enormous shame and stigma, not only for the problem gambler but their entire family. As a result, most problem gamblers do not seek professional help but try to resolve the problem themselves or within the family unit. Research findings indicate that service access could be increased through a range of strategies including the provision of culturally appropriate community education and gambling help services, partnerships between NESB communities, gambling help services and community workers, and the development and implementation of preventative strategies.

Acknowledgements

Funding for this project was provided by the Research and Community Engagement Division, Queensland Treasury.

Notes

 1. Statistics quoted from Australian Gaming Council Factsheets 3, 9 and 15; source is the Tasmanian Gaming Commission, Australian Gambling Statistics, 1974–1975 to 1999–2000.

 2. In addition to qualitative research into the motivation for gambling and impacts of problem gambling, a quantitative prevalence study was also conducted, which used the Canadian Problem Gambling Index (CPGI) as its screening tool. The CPGI was chosen to allow comparison with a previous study of problem gambling in Queensland. Results of the prevalence study with NESB communities will be published separately.

 3. The most appropriate alternative word to use instead of gambling was explored with community reference groups. However, the best words to use in Chinese, Greek and Vietnamese do not translate easily into English. For example, in Cantonese, the most appropriate word translates into English as ‘play’; in Chinese, it is more precise than this and means gambling.

 4. All three were interviewed using an interpreter or bilingual interviewer.