Increasing Problem Gambling Concerns in Massachusetts Following Legalization

Rising Gambling Problems in Massachusetts

Recent research conducted by the University of Massachusetts Amherst reveals that gambling behavior in Massachusetts has undergone significant changes. Monthly gamblers are increasingly engaging in sports betting, participating more intensely in gambling activities, and experiencing a surge in gambling-related harms. Many experts point to the legalization of sports betting as a contributing factor to this trend.

Key Findings From the Recent Study

Rachel Volberg, an epidemiologist and the lead researcher for the Study of Gambling Markets in Massachusetts (SEIGMA), shared notable findings with the Massachusetts Gaming Commission on July 31. The data showed a growing awareness among gamblers regarding the negative impacts of gambling. The percentage of monthly gamblers who believe gambling causes more harm than good climbed steadily from 48% in 2022 to 53% in early 2024, reaching 56% by fall 2024.

Volberg attributes this shift partly to the extensive media attention and aggressive marketing campaigns that have been prominent since legal sports betting was introduced. Additionally, the proportion of individuals struggling with gambling problems has also risen—from 20.9% in 2022 to 25.6% in 2023, increasing further to 28% by fall 2024.

Financial troubles linked to gambling among monthly gamblers have seen a notable increase, growing from 18% in 2022 to 25% in 2024. Relationship and family difficulties related to gambling have almost doubled during this period, from 13.9% to 27.2%.

Understanding the Shift in Gambling Behavior

The legalization of sports betting has clearly influenced how people gamble in Massachusetts. Participation in sports betting among those surveyed rose from 16.7% in March 2022, before legalization, to 26.9% in March 2023, climbing further to 32.6% in 2024. Conversely, informal social betting with friends or family has declined, dropping from 49.3% of monthly gamblers in 2022 to 32.2% by fall 2024.

Licensed sportsbooks have become the preferred option for many, with legal betting surging as use of illegal sports betting platforms dropped from 13.5% in 2022 to 6.8% in 2023, before inching up again to 8.3% in 2024. These trends indicate a shift toward regulated gambling but also highlight increased risks and harms associated with legal betting.

Implications and the Need for Responsible Gambling Measures

Despite the overall rise in harmful gambling habits, Massachusetts reported lower betting revenues in June compared to previous months, suggesting complex dynamics in gambling activity. The findings emphasize the critical need for targeted harm reduction efforts and expanding access to support tools to promote responsible gambling. Such measures are especially important for individuals facing financial strain or relationship difficulties due to gambling.