The University of Memphis' Institute for Gambling and Research recently received a grant from Harvard Medical School for nearly $60,000 to fund its upcoming Alcohol and Gambling, or Al-Gam, research project.
"It allows us to do new research," said Jim Whelan, director of clinical training.
"I am very honored," he said.
He founded IGR seven years ago with co-director Andrew Meyer.
Research in the past suggested the connection between alcohol and gambling.
"We have seen a pattern. Unlike in the adult general population, college students are more likely to consume alcohol when gambling," Whelan said.
Rebecca West, a psychology doctoral student who is responsible for recruitment and general project issues, said Harvard rewarded The U of M because the program will explore healing through self-change.
"Harvard Medical School Division on Addictions had granted the Gambling Clinic monies to explore treatments using the Guided-Self Change method for gambling and alcohol consumption," she said.
The competition was fierce.
"The University was chosen out of many entries," Whelan said. "It was really hard to be considered. It was very competitive."
The Medical School awarded IGR the grant in order for it to do a study to examine the correlation between alcohol use and gambling addictions and abuse in college students.
"There are various permeations," Whelan said. "We are looking for gamblers who have a lot of problems when they drink."
He is hoping 60 people will join the study. College students from all lifestyles are welcome and all participants will be compensated.
The program is believed to be effective.
"The premise of the Self Guided change program is to make treatment choices that fit their willingness to change," West said.
Patrice Holly, a sophomore biology major, said she thinks the grant was a good idea.
"I think it is fine (the grant)," she said. "It's allowing them to do research the project," she said.
On the other hand Catrinia Booth, a senior veterinary science major, said she thinks the topic could be more relevant to students.
"The fact that they gave money to U of M is fine," she said. "But, their choice of topic was silly. Most students are poor and can't afford to gamble after they buy alcohol."
The grant will last two years, and it is not renewable.
The study will begin Dec. 1.
