Canadian University Press Releases/Newswire

Source: Mount Saint Vincent University
http://www.msvu.ca/MediaCentre/Releases/2006/Oct06/021006.asp

Youth Gambling Study Undertaken at Mount Saint Vincent University

October 2, 2006

October 2, 2006, Halifax – A team of six researchers has been awarded a 10-month
grant by the Nova Scotia Gaming Corporation (NSGC) to conduct a
comprehensive, independent research study into youth gambling.

This study brings together a multidisciplinary and interuniversity team of
researchers to examine the causes, processes, outcomes and impacts of
gambling on youth in our province. The research team consists of five
faculty members from Mount Saint Vincent University (MSVU) and one from
Saint Mary’s University (SMU). MSVU researchers include Professor Karen
Blotnicky, Dr. Mallika Das, Dr. Michael Fitzgerald, Dr. Fred French and Dr.
Deborah Norris. Dr. David Perrier is based at SMU. They will be assisted by
graduate research assistants, Elaine Seniuk, Erin Power and Pamela 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, NSGC President and CEO. "The Mount Saint Vincent University
bid succeeded because of the depth and breadth of knowledge of youth the
University offered. 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 decisions."

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 MSVU 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.

"This research is another success story for Mount Saint Vincent University
and our collaborative research approach," states Dr. Anthony Davis, MSVU
Associate Vice-President, Research. "All of the researchers will play an
equal and essential role. As well, we expect this final report to add in an
important way to the literature regarding gambling behaviours, impacts and
harm reduction needs for youth across Nova Scotia."

More information about the researchers and their specific areas of study is
available on request.

Contact:
Anne Stephaniuk
MSVU Public Affairs
Tel: (902) 457-6439
Cell: (902) 441-0505