Increase in Compulsive Gaming Reported in Massachusetts According to Recent Research
Rise in Problem Gambling in Massachusetts Linked to Online and Sports Betting
A study conducted by UMass Amherst, known as the Social and Economic Impacts of Gambling in Massachusetts Study (SIEGMA), has revealed a significant increase in problem gambling in the state since the legalization of sports betting and the introduction of online betting platforms in early 2023.
According to the study, monthly gamblers experiencing gambling problems rose from 20.9% in 2022 to 25.6% in 2023, reaching 28% by fall 2024. This escalation corresponds with increased sports betting activity, including a rise in weekly and monthly sports bettors and a decline in illegal and social sports betting, indicating a shift towards legalized betting venues.
The study also found that problem gamblers account for 90% of casino expenditures in Massachusetts. Furthermore, it noted that problem gambling is associated with a range of physical and emotional health issues.
The Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC), which runs a comprehensive research program to assess gambling’s effects and inform policies related to responsible gaming and problem gambling prevention, has reported that the percentage of problem gamblers has risen by 51% since 2013.
The MGC plans to continue monthly reports on gambling attitudes, behaviors, and problems in the Commonwealth. These reports will likely provide further insights into the social and economic impacts of gambling in Massachusetts.
It's important to note that the expansion of online betting platforms, including live betting and other high-frequency online wagering options, has been associated with behaviors linked to problem gambling. However, no new statistics on these specific areas were presented in the SIEGMA study.
[1] [2] [3] - References for the statistics and findings mentioned in this article. [4] - Information about the Massachusetts Gaming Commission's research program.
- The rise in problem gambling in Massachusetts, following the legalization of sports betting and introduction of online betting platforms, has led to an increase in monthly gamblers experiencing gambling problems, with numbers reaching 28% by fall 2024.
- Problem gamblers in Massachusetts account for 90% of casino expenditures, suggesting a significant financial impact on both casino-and-gambling revenue and problem gambling rates.
- Engaging in activities such as sports betting on betting sites has contributed to a shift towards legalized betting venues, with a decline in illegal and social sports betting observed.
