““The reflective vignettes in this timely book on counselling practice in the context of gambling addiction services are very evocative; they offer a wide coverage of practice situations and experiences, providing insight not only into the individual-psychological ramifications of this ever widening scourge, but also of the relational context and the impact of gambling on families, partners, work relationships and others. Further, the political – economic dimensions are regularly referred to – if not thoroughly elaborated, which indeed would require another book! – but they are certainly illustrative of the very complex nature of gambling addiction and its insertion at all levels of societal process and structure.
The book will hopefully add to the growing awareness amongst widening groups of concerned citizens in Hong Kong and elsewhere about the devastating effects excessive gambling can and does have on the community; it should also add to the emerging questions about the ethical aspects of this form of ‘recreation’ and about the profound implications its spread has on the society as a whole.
I recommend this book warmly and may it become a valuable tool in the context of education and training of counsellors, in professional development and, more generally, amongst those who are concerned about the effects addictive gambling has on Hong Kong and beyond.”
Jacques Boulet, PhD
Gambling Researcher and consultant, Borderlands Cooperative
Head of oases Graduate School in Integrative and Transformative Studies.”
