Hosts Jon Bruford and Dr. Michael Hour engage in a deep conversation with David Hodgins, Professor of Clinical Psychology at the University of Calgary, about the complexities of gambling, its risks, and the development of lower risk gambling guidelines. We explore the differences between gambling harm and addiction, the profiles of individuals seeking help for gambling issues, and the normalisation of gambling in society. The discussion also touches on responsible gambling measures and the potential for minimising harm through better practices.

This episode is brought to you by Gaming Laboratories International, who we love. For more information, visit gaminglabs.com.

All the things we talk about:

1. Lower risk gambling guidelines are based on extensive research.
2. Gambling harm is distinct from gambling addiction.
3. The guidelines suggest spending less than 1% of gross income on gambling.
4. People generally find the guidelines reasonable and applicable.
5. There is a need for better measures of gambling-related harm.
6. Normalisation of gambling has significant societal consequences.
7. Many individuals want to reduce their gambling but do not seek treatment.
8. Responsible gambling measures are often not used effectively.
9. The gambling industry is concerned about regulations that limit spending.
10. Understanding the motives for gambling is crucial in addressing gambling issues.

Choice quotes:

1. "It's good to be here again, isn't it?"
2. "The normalisation of gambling has consequences."
3. "There's lots of room for us to do better."

Chapters (but you might want to add 75 seconds or so because of the music and the lyrical waxing about GLI, who are terrific):

1. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
2. 02:43 Lower Risk Gambling Guidelines
3. 10:52 Understanding Gambling Harm vs. Addiction
4. 20:47 Profiles of Gamblers Seeking Help
5. 26:10 The Role of Money in Gambling and Escapism
6. 31:32 Normalization of Gambling in Society
7. 35:01 Responsible Gambling Measures and Their Effectiveness

David Hodgins on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hodgins-david-81a2073/

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