New Study Unearths the Gambling Behaviors of Pacific Region Mothers and Their Children

A recent report by The Ministry of Health of New Zealand has shed more light on the gambling behaviors of mothers and children in the Pacific region. Funded by the Ministry, the study forms part of an ongoing Pacific Islands Families (PIF) Research Project and offers insight into changing gambling habits and risk factors over an extended time period. The study also seeks to examine the social, familial and environmental factors linked to gambling.

The ongoing PIF project is being conducted by the Auckland University of Technology (AUT) and examines Pacific region children born in 2000 and their parents. As previously detailed, this new study intends to examine gambling behaviours, problem gambling and the extent of gambling-related harm among youths in the region. The work seeks to evaluate risk factors associated with gambling and spending.

According to data collected in the study, 52% of all participating mothers had gambled in 2013. 2.9% of all participating mothers were found to have experienced moderate harm as a result of their own gambling, and 0.7% were considered gambling addicts. With regard to minors, the study revealed that over 50% of 14-year-olds in the Pacific region had already gambled at least once. Further, one in 27 of these children were found to be problem gamblers.

Gambling Mothers Encourage Gambling Children

Results of the study reveal that mothers are more at risk of gambling if they consume alcohol, are victims of constant verbal aggression, or suffer significant deprivation. Further, gambling behavior was found to be linked with low engagement in New Zealand culture, and a high engagement in Pacific culture.

According to Dr. El-Shadan Tautolo, Director of the AUT study, the project highlights a need for better maternal support in the Pacific region. In particular, it shows that mothers in New Zealand need assistance. He explained that some measures would be needed, to strengthen their association with Pacific culture whilst also reinforcing their connection with New Zealand culture and local society.

This ongoing study, as explained, seeks to shed light on the way in which gambling behaviour and risk factors have changed and to offer a better understanding of the range of factors affecting gambling.

Dr Maria Bellringer is one of the main authors of the recent report and believes that the report has uncovered an important connection between the gambling behaviour of different generations. According to Bellringer, mothers’ gambling behaviours typically impact those of their children. This is why, she says, it is so important for campaigns to tackle adult education and public health, and to prevent through-generation gambling harm.