Gambling has a long history that dates back to the Paleolithic period before people could even write. Based on this, we can say that gambling has been developing as humanity progressed and developed itself.
As you’d probably expect it, loads of myths and legends surrounding the concept of gambling were born throughout such a long period of time. It is also apparent that not all of them are truthful.
Today many people use these myths in their fight against all kinds of gambling.
Even though gambling activity is not risk-free and requires a careful approach, some of these myths further reinforce the negative perceptions surrounding it. Therefore, it is important to be aware of the facts, and not get carried away by the myths that do not have a solid foundation behind them.
This article sets out to debunk such myths, and provides you with a clear overview on why gambling should not be always viewed as a “problem,” by clarifying that it (just like other entertainment methods) comes in different forms and shapes.
Myth №1. Gambling is an addiction
Very often, the so-called “gambling prosecutors” use this myth to build their “accusatory speech.” We are not implying that problem gambling doesn’t exist. However, we feel like the issue needs to be examined before giving out a verdict.
There is a term “compulsive gambling,” or “gambling disorder,” that defines an uncontrollable urge to play in the hope of winning big and without paying attention to what is going on in your life.
The doctors can’t tell the exact factors that can explain this disorder’s cause, but some list “escaping from reality” as one of them.
Is this a problem? Of course! Is this problem unique to gambling? Of course NOT!
We think that such psychological disorders as “gaming addiction” and “compulsive spending” have a similar effect. Yes, these are different types of problems, but they do have something in common – the wish to avoid reality and the urge to spend more money than you have or wish to allocate. These activities release dopamine that makes people happy without interfering with their bodies, like alcohol or tobacco (or even coffee).
Overall, we are not saying that there is no such problem as “gambling addiction.” We are saying that this problem might be caused by a lack of self-control and a wish for a better life.
We suggest reading more about this (and other disorders) to be aware of them.
Related: How To Make Money From Sports Betting
Myth №2. There are no gaming websites that you can trust
All online gambling sites cheat their players, and all the players’ data are in the “dark web”.
The truth is that today all websites that operate in the gambling industry try their best to protect their players and are bound to do so by their operating licenses.
The countries have different rules for granting their license, but one requirement remains untouchable – honesty and transparency. Every credible online casino has this license and does everything to meet the quality standards. Without this license, the casino will face severe judicial problems.
Security is the second significant point because you can’t create good and honest relations with the players without it. Without this bond, the casino will go off the market very soon.
Let’s take one of the most popular online casinos – slotv.com, for example. You can find its license on the home page right after the list of all game providers that can be found on their website.
Your eye also can catch the section “Privacy policy,” where all the security measures that are being taken by SlotV to protect their players are listed. Anyone can freely read all this information before creating an account on SlotV.
What about cheating? All brand new slots work with the Random Number Generator (RNG system) that no one can control. Therefore, whether the player wins or loses is purely determined by luck, and is not a product of a predetermined result that the casino wants to achieve.
Besides, winnings are not necessarily a bad thing for casino sites – big wins attract increased attention levels towards the casino, and are, therefore, also welcome. By the way, casinos like SlotV often publish the biggest wins of their players on their social media accounts.
Myth №3. Online Casinos don’t do much to protect minors from being exposed to gambling
Again. We are not saying that this problem doesn’t exist, but the truth is that online casinos do everything possible to prevent children from engaging in gambling activities.
Firstly, some countries’ regulations (for example, Sweden) require that online casinos can’t use cartoon mascots in their promotional materials. Otherwise, the operators will receive a hefty penalty.
Secondly, all licensed online casinos have serious identification measures to exclude underage people from the game. So, it is complicated for children to create an account to start playing.
In conclusion
Untruthful and far-fetched myths and legends will always surround the gambling sphere, but the same goes for everything in our world. Online casinos are not the source of everything evil. Nowadays it’s just a platform where adults can relax and enjoy a game – always responsibly.
If it’s not your kind of a thing, simply don’t play. However, refrain from judging the people who enjoy the process and avoid spreading untruthful myths about them.
If you do, however, gamble, make sure to do it in moderation and to play responsibly. That’s key in avoiding the spread of such myths that portray gambling as something dishonest and evil.
