A recent series of online surveys conducted by the University of Massachusetts Amherst reveals a troubling trend among monthly gamblers in Massachusetts. The surveys, which took place in 2014, 2022, and 2023, show a significant rise in the number of individuals experiencing gambling-related issues. The most recent data indicates that 25.6% of monthly gamblers are now dealing with gambling problems, a notable jump from 12.7% in 2014.
SEIGMA Research Highlights Changes in Gambling Behavior
The Social and Economic Impacts of Gambling in Massachusetts (SEIGMA) research initiative has been closely monitoring gambling behaviors over the years. While these surveys are not representative of the entire population, they provide valuable insights into the behaviors and attitudes of regular gamblers—those who gamble at least once a month.
One key finding from these surveys is the increased intensity of gambling activities. More people are engaging in various forms of gambling, including lottery games, sports betting, private wagering, horse racing, bingo, and online gambling. This uptick in activity suggests that while the pandemic may have temporarily curbed some gambling behaviors, those at risk for gambling problems have continued or even escalated their activities.
The Impact of Sports Betting Legalization
Sports betting has seen a particularly sharp increase in participation among monthly gamblers, especially since its legalization in Massachusetts. In 2023, 28.3% of monthly gamblers reported betting on sports at least once a week, a significant rise from 7% in 2013. Rachel Volberg, SEIGMA’s principal investigator, believes that the surge in advertising and media coverage surrounding sports betting may be contributing to this trend, particularly among those already vulnerable to gambling problems.
Shifting Attitudes Towards Gambling
Another concerning trend is the shift in attitudes among monthly gamblers. The surveys indicate that more individuals now believe the harms of gambling outweigh the benefits. Additionally, there’s a growing perception that gambling addiction is the most significant negative impact of casinos, overshadowing the potential employment benefits. These changing attitudes reflect a more critical view of gambling, particularly in the context of the increased visibility and accessibility of gambling opportunities.
Future Implications for Massachusetts
The findings from these surveys suggest that problem gambling may continue to rise among regular gamblers in Massachusetts, particularly as sports betting becomes more entrenched. While the surveys offer a snapshot rather than a definitive picture of the population, they raise important questions about the long-term impacts of expanded gambling options in the state.
As Massachusetts continues to navigate the complexities of legalized gambling, these trends highlight the need for ongoing monitoring and support for those at risk of gambling problems. The data serves as a reminder that while gambling can offer entertainment and economic benefits, it also carries significant risks, particularly for vulnerable individuals.
This ongoing research will be crucial in shaping policies and interventions aimed at reducing the harms associated with gambling in Massachusetts. As these trends continue to evolve, it will be important to remain vigilant and responsive to the needs of those affected by problem gambling.