October 2, 2006 Source: :
http://www.smu.ca/newsreleases/2006/02-10-10-2006.html Youth Gambling Study Undertaken
at SMU A professor
from Saint Mary’s University is part of a team of researchers from Halifax,
NS who have been awarded a 10-month grant by the Nova Scotia Gaming
Corporation (NSGC) to conduct a comprehensive, independent research study
into youth gambling. Dr. David Perrier, a professor of criminology and sociology at Saint Mary’s,
will work with five other professors from Mount Saint Vincent University in
order to examine the causes, processes, outcomes and impacts of gambling on
youth in our province. The faculty from MSVU include: Professor Karen
Blotnicky, Dr. Mallika Das, Dr. Michael Fitzgerald, Dr. Fred French and Dr.
Deborah Norris. They will be assisted by graduate research assistants,
Elaine Seniuk, Erin Power and Pam Ross. Areas of study include gender
differences, experiences of the family members of youth identified as
problem gamblers and accessibility of Nova Scotia youth to gambling
activities. "To ensure that the business of gambling in our province is carried out in a
safe, carefully regulated and socially responsible manner, understanding how
to prevent gambling among young people is an important component," says
Marie Mullally, President and CEO of the Nova Scotia Gaming Corporation
(NSGC). "The unique combination of academic perspectives the team provides through a
multidisciplinary approach is the foundation for rich, varied research. The
results will further inform prevention programming and gambling policy in
Nova Scotia, adding to our insight about the issue of youth gambling and
ultimately helping us make the best decision," she adds. The task involves designing, conducting and completing a pilot study of the
social and behavioural conditions and contexts that may be associated with
the development and prevention of youth (ages 12 to 24) problem gambling
behaviours. The team was awarded the $75,000 contract after a rigorous RFP process.
Together the six researchers bring expertise in child and youth, family
studies, sociology, psychology, education, business and tourism. The research results will be presented to NSGC in the spring of 2007. Saint Mary's University is known for its community outreach projects, both
in Canada and around the world. Saint Mary's, founded in 1802, is home to
one of Canada's leading business schools, a Science Faculty widely known for
its cutting-edge research, a comprehensive and innovative Arts Faculty and a
vibrant Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research. -30- For More Information: Paul Fitzgerald
Public Affairs Officer
Saint Mary's University, Public Affairs
(902) 420.5514
E-mail: paul.fitzgerald@smu.ca
www.smu.ca
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