Online gambling has become an increasingly alarming phenomenon in Indonesia. Despite being illegal, these platforms continue to grow rapidly, attracting many users, particularly those from lower income backgrounds. One of the main factors driving people to engage in online gambling is vicious cycle of poverty.
The Vicious Cycle of Poverty and Online Gambling
Many people living on poverty line see online gambling as shortcut to improving their financial situation. The hope for easy winnings often blinds them to risks of greater losses. Ironically, when someone loses, they feel compelled to keep playing to "recover" their lost money. This cycle repeats itself, trapping them further in a situation that’s difficult to escape.
For instance, a low income worker exposed to online gambling advertisements might believe that a small amount of money gambled could be the solution to paying off debts or meeting family needs. However, when they lose, guilt sets in, prompting them to try again in hopes of winning. Ultimately, continuous losses pile up, worsening their financial condition.
Psychological Exploitation
Online gambling is designed to exploit human psychological weaknesses. Sign-up bonuses, small early wins, and attractive graphics are all part of the strategy to make players feel that fortune is always within reach. In reality, the platform’s algorithms are almost always designed to benefit the organizers, not players.
Moreover, the accessibility of online gambling, available anytime through smartphones, exacerbates this issue. With just a few clicks, individuals can lose money that should have been used for daily necessities.
Phenomenon of online gambling harms not only individuals but also society as a whole. Many families are torn apart by gambling debts, while individuals productivity declines as they become consumed by the pursuit of uncertain winnings. Additionally, there is a rise in criminal activities, such as theft and fraud, often linked to efforts to fund gambling habits.
Addressing the issue of online gambling requires a holistic approach:
- Public Education and Awareness
The government and social organizations need to raise public awareness about the dangers of online gambling, especially for those in economically challenging situations. - Strict Law Enforcement
The government must tighten its monitoring of online gambling platforms and impose severe penalties on those involved. - Improving Economic Welfare
The vicious cycle of poverty can be broken by creating better job opportunities, providing skills training, and ensuring access to social assistance programs. - Rehabilitation and Counseling
For individuals already addicted, rehabilitation and psychological counseling are necessary to help them break free from the habit.
Online gambling in Indonesia is a complex social issue, especially as it is closely linked to factors such as poverty and lack of education. Tackling it requires collaboration between the government, society, and individuals. If left unaddressed, this issue will continue to grow and harm future generations.
source my article : https://medium.com/@satriaadhipradana/social-disease-that-is-hard-to-cure-3198cf5aa08e
