I first became involved in the gambling industry in 1991, when I began researching the social, economic, and cultural impacts of the Shooting Star Casino on the White Earth Reservation in Minnesota. As a graduate student in cultural anthropology, I was drawn to studying cultural change and its effects. Visiting the tribal casino in my hometown of Mahnomen, I witnessed significant local improvements, including increased employment opportunities, infrastructure upgrades, and a newfound sense of optimism in the community.
Following my research on tribal casino community impacts, I transitioned to Washington, D.C., where I worked on gambling policy as a writer and tribal gaming staff member for the National Gambling Impact Study Commission (NGISC). During this time, I was struck by the negative portrayal of casinos as contributors to addiction in American communities. However, I was inspired by organizations like the American Gaming Association and the International Center for Responsible Gaming, which aimed to understand addiction through scientific research and promote responsible gaming practices.
Throughout my 30-year career, I have been privileged to witness the evolution of addiction research into an academic field focused on understanding behavioral addiction and gambling disorder. This research has led to groundbreaking discoveries, including the recognition of Addiction as a Syndrome. As the Endowed Chair and Professor for the Sycuan Institute on Tribal Gaming at San Diego State University, I have integrated this scientific work into the gaming curriculum, benefiting tribal gaming professionals, community members, and students.
In my teaching role at SDSU, I offer a General Education class titled “Cross-Cultural Interpretations of Gambling Addiction.” With over 180 students from diverse majors, we explore topics such as the Addiction Syndrome model and the high comorbidity associated with gambling disorder. The syndrome model, introduced by Harvard researcher Dr. Howard Shaffer, emphasizes addressing the underlying condition of addiction rather than focusing solely on specific behaviors like drinking or gambling.
By understanding and treating addiction as a syndrome, clinicians and individuals can move beyond singular expressions of addiction and recognize the interconnected nature of addictive behaviors. The high comorbidity for gambling disorder highlights the importance of addressing the underlying Addiction Syndrome to promote holistic healing. Without addressing the core issue, individuals may continue to struggle with various forms of addiction, leading to a cycle of substitution and suffering.
As a board member of the International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG), I advocate for incorporating new scientific findings into industry practices and community outreach efforts. By supporting rigorous research and promoting actionable findings, we can ensure that the latest advancements in addiction science are translated into meaningful interventions for individuals and families affected by addiction. It is essential for industry professionals to stay informed about the latest research to uphold ethical practices and support the well-being of communities.
In conclusion, the evolution of addiction research has provided valuable insights into the complex nature of addiction and the importance of addressing it as a syndrome. By integrating this knowledge into clinical training, industry practices, and community initiatives, we can better support individuals affected by addiction and work towards positive outcomes for all stakeholders. Let us continue to prioritize research, education, and collaboration to foster a responsible and informed approach to addressing addiction in our society.