The Socio-psychological Elements of Bingo
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Posted On :
May-03-2011
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Article Word Count :
680
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This article is a description of the social and psychological ramifications of bingo. It attempts to illustrate the importance of Bingo as a social activity for many people, usually the elderly and others that may live alone.
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Humans are, without a doubt, social animals. Generally, people want and need social interaction and companionship. Some need it more than others perhaps, but as a rule, people need people. Humans are innately imbued with the desire to reach out to another for comfort or security. If even on a social level without personal investment, interacting with others is something that makes people feel connected.
As people get older, friends, acquaintances and family members become less accessible. Mobility may be limited by aging or abilities. Contemporaries pass away. Old friends share the same fate. Oftentimes, older citizens tend to be forgotten or less involved with family as interests become less common with younger generations. Lives get busier for the children and grandchildren, and grandparents become less active within the community.
There are even many middle-aged people who have led a life less socially connected. They've been socially inept for all or most of their lives and cannot find peace of mind or solace in their solitude as they once did. They start to realize that life has passed them by and recognize that they have missed out on so much as a result.
Enter, bingo. Centuries old, bingo originated in Italy and eventually made its way to America in the early 20th century. It started as 'beano' but soon trans-morphed into bingo. It also soon became associated with the Catholic Church as a means to raise funds for the local parishes. Although bingo is generally associated with the church, it is not patented; anybody can set up a bingo game as long as local authorities approve legally. It is a form of gambling so gambling laws apply to some extent.
Bingo is very popular with the elderly. It is an opportunity for them to get out and mingle. The game is very easy to learn and play and provides the participants with an opportunity to possibly even make a little extra money. The money, however, is not the main reason people enjoy it. They enjoy it for the social element.
Participants are gathered in one room where the 'caller' announces the numbers. There, they arrange their bingo cards and mark each number as it's called. They chat and socialize about their families, their past games and the weather. They sympathize, empathize and share anecdotes.
Bingo players are quite serious about the game because of the potential for monetary gain, but even more serious about their participation and communal experience. They soon become friends with other players and will often sit at the same table night after night. They will bring good luck charms to place on their table. Pictures of grandchildren, tiny teddy bears, and anything else considered to have been a harbinger of good luck may be displayed.
Bingo aficionados are a faithful breed. They will often select the same cards, markers and seats. They cherish the people they sit with and their opportunity to socialize with others of their generation. However, it isn't only the elderly that enjoy the game. Many younger people also play and get the same enjoyment. They aren't eliminated from the conversation because of their age, but are freely welcomed into the camaraderie of the group.
Bingo is so much more than what it sounds like. Those that criticize the game fail to see the social impact that it has on many people's lives. It's truly a Godsend for those whose lives would be infinitely emptier without bingo. It provides hope for slight financial gain for many people on a limited income, while accommodating the human need for interaction and community.
In a world where the elderly are less likely to get the attention they used to get and need, bingo is a haven, a refuge, a psychological boost for many that would have no other opportunities to feel wanted or appreciated. Friendships are made and treasured in a bingo game. There, people who might be otherwise starved for attention are fed the pleasures of camaraderie, laughter, fun, and a challenge to 'get lucky'.
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Article Source :
http://www.articleseen.com/Article_The Socio-psychological Elements of Bingo_61165.aspx
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Author Resource :
To read more bingo articles, bingo reviews and find up-to-date promotion codes, please visit UK Bingo.
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Keywords :
psychological, bingo game, , reason people, bingo,
Category :
Recreation and Sports
:
Gambling and Casinos
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