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No Fintan!

This episode’s guest is Dr. Sally Gainsbury, Director at Gambling Treatment & Research Clinic and Professor of Psychology, University of Sydney. Dr Gainsbury discusses the importance of language in gambling research and the need for more responsible terminology. Sally and Jon also touch on the flaws of the peer review system in academia, and the unique gambling landscape in Australia. The conversation explores the need for a commercial approach to problem gambling and the importance of effective communication to prevent gambling harm. It discusses the metrics for success in addressing problem gambling and the role of marketing in shaping consumer behaviour. The conversation also touches on the challenges of understanding gambling costs, the impact of lottery advertising, and the need for transparency in gambling inducements. The role of regulators in addressing deceptive practices and the potential for gambling to be a gateway activity are also discussed.

Also worth noting: Sally does not disclose the identity of Australia’s greatest music act, but there is bonding over the genius of Bluey, and a bit of Strictly Ballroom. Oh, and Democracy Sausages get in the conversation. If you don’t know what they are, press play…

In a nutshell:

• Language is important in shaping perceptions and behaviors related to gambling.
• The peer review system in academia has its flaws and requires checks and balances.
• Australia has a high rate of gambling participation, particularly in pokies (electronic gaming machines).
• Advertising for online wagering has increased, targeting younger men.
• There is a need for a shift in the responsibility of operators and players in promoting responsible gambling.
• The gambling industry needs to adapt and change, as seen with previous bans on tobacco advertising. Problem gambling should be approached as a commercial problem, with metrics for success that focus on marketing effectiveness.
• Effective communication is crucial in preventing gambling harm, including providing information on the costs of play and the chances of winning.
• Transparency is needed in gambling inducements, such as bonusing, to ensure consumers are fully aware of the terms and conditions.
• Regulators play a vital role in addressing deceptive practices and promoting responsible gambling.
• While gambling can provide hope and entertainment, it is important for individuals to have a critical appraisal of their gambling behavior and make informed choices.

Choice quotes from the episode:

"Language is at the bottom of everything we do."

"The way we talk about something, even casually, has a strong impact on individual behaviour."

"Problem gambling terminology implies something inherent about the person that can't be changed."

"If you look at it as a commercial problem, then the metrics for success change completely. If you look at it as a marketing issue, because it's getting the right words to the right person at the right time in the right way. And that is marketing, pretty much."

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