A recent survey conducted by Fairleigh Dickinson University has unveiled a concerning trend in the United States gambling landscape. The study, released on September 21, 2023, indicates that 10% of young men in the country display behaviors associated with gambling problems, a figure significantly higher than the 3% observed in the general population.
Dan Cassino, a professor of government and politics at Fairleigh Dickinson and the executive director of the survey, emphasized the heightened risks associated with online gambling. He stated, "Online gambling is proving to be much more dangerous than other kinds," particularly highlighting the perils of online sports betting and slot machines.
The survey employed the Problem Gambling Severity Index, a nine-question assessment tool designed to identify problematic gambling behaviors. Results showed that 24% of men reported at least one problem behavior, with this figure rising to 45% for men aged 30 and under.
Arnie Wexler, a prominent advocate for individuals with gambling problems, expressed deep concern over the current situation. He remarked, "We are a nation of addicted gamblers," highlighting the increasing number of young people and parents seeking help for gambling-related issues.
"All the gambling going on, it's addicting so many people, and so many young people. It's gotten crazy what's going on today."
The study's findings are particularly alarming considering that the average age of onset for gambling addiction is around 21-25 years old. Moreover, approximately 80% of problem gamblers never seek treatment, underscoring the importance of early intervention and robust consumer protection measures.
In response to these concerns, the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) conducted a comprehensive analysis of gambling laws across all U.S. states. The review assessed how well each state's regulations align with the NCPG's internet responsible gambling standards.
The analysis revealed significant disparities in consumer protection measures across states. Connecticut, New Jersey, and Virginia emerged as the most aligned with the standards, meeting 49 out of 82 criteria. Conversely, several states met fewer than 25 of the standards, indicating substantial room for improvement in consumer safeguards.
Keith Whyte, the executive director of the NCPG, emphasized the need for immediate action, stating, "We urge legislators and regulators to take immediate steps to close these gaps and work to mitigate gambling-related harm."
As the global online gambling market continues to expand, having been valued at $57.54 billion in 2021, the need for comprehensive and effective regulations becomes increasingly crucial. The gambling industry has adopted some responsible gambling standards, including deposit limits and prominent display of helpline information. However, the NCPG's report suggests that these measures may not be sufficient to address the growing concerns surrounding problem gambling, particularly among young adults.
With the first online casino having launched in 1996 and sports betting legalized on a federal level in the U.S. in 2018, the landscape of gambling has evolved rapidly. As technology continues to make gambling more accessible, it is imperative that consumer protection measures keep pace to safeguard vulnerable populations, especially young adults who are at higher risk of developing problematic gambling behaviors.