RELIGIOUS COMMUNITIES HAVE A SIGNIFICANT ROLE IN PROMOTION OF MENTAL HEALTH AS WELL AS IN INVESTMENT IN POSITIVE DEVELOPMENT OF THE YOUTH

Interview with professor Neven Ricijaš

Abstract

UDK 159.9-053.6(047.53)

In the interview with distinguished professor Neven Ricijaš, we encountered with an analysis of the gambling phenomenon with the focus upon the experience of our neighbouring country, Croatia. The research of professor Neven Ricijaš and his team shows that a one third of high-school population in Croatia regularly gamble  in sport-betting shops, which is in itself a concerning fact. The author presents the main factors that instigated the outspread of this phenomenon as well as certain insights regarding the methods and programs that are used in the Republic of Croatia as an official reaction to this big challenge. He explains the role of the scientists, the task of the state structures and finally, he explains why it is the primary obligation of religious communities to take part in this effort. He stressed that the religious communities can significantly contribute in an adequate confrontation of the problem of gambling addiction, keeping in mind the fact that traditional religions promote work, effort and earning not winning the profits.