Gambling behavior and criminal convictions
Abstract
Problem gambling is shown to be more common among prisoners and persons with criminal history. Some studies suggest that offending and criminal behavior are linked not only to problem gambling, but also to certain gambling behavior in general. It is well recognized that certain gambling types are riskier and more addictive. At the same time, they might attract different populations with different gambling motives.
Previous research has largely focused on the associations between problem gambling and criminal behavior. However, there is no reason to believe there is an unambiguous relationship between gambling and crime. Using register data on convictions combined with a gambling-related population survey (n=3993), the presentation will outline the results of a novel study exploring the relationship between criminal convictions and gambling behavior.
We explore whether gamblers who have convictions differ from those gamblers who do not have convictions regarding their gambling motives, gambling frequency and preferred gambling game types. In addition, we examine whether the type of offending and number of convictions are linked to gambling types, gambling frequency or gambling motives.
Implications
The results are beneficial for early identification of at-risk gamblers and for distinguishing indicators for risky gambling behavior. Understanding the gambling behavior -related factors among convicted populations is crucial for both gambling harm prevention and crime prevention. Identifying the factors is beneficial for developing tailored interventions in criminal justice systems.
Gambling behavior and criminal convictions
Park MGM, Las Vegas, NV
Problem gambling is shown to be more common among prisoners and persons with criminal history. Some studies suggest that offending and criminal behavior are linked not only to problem gambling, but also to certain gambling behavior in general. It is well recognized that certain gambling types are riskier and more addictive. At the same time, they might attract different populations with different gambling motives.
Previous research has largely focused on the associations between problem gambling and criminal behavior. However, there is no reason to believe there is an unambiguous relationship between gambling and crime. Using register data on convictions combined with a gambling-related population survey (n=3993), the presentation will outline the results of a novel study exploring the relationship between criminal convictions and gambling behavior.
We explore whether gamblers who have convictions differ from those gamblers who do not have convictions regarding their gambling motives, gambling frequency and preferred gambling game types. In addition, we examine whether the type of offending and number of convictions are linked to gambling types, gambling frequency or gambling motives.
Implications
The results are beneficial for early identification of at-risk gamblers and for distinguishing indicators for risky gambling behavior. Understanding the gambling behavior -related factors among convicted populations is crucial for both gambling harm prevention and crime prevention. Identifying the factors is beneficial for developing tailored interventions in criminal justice systems.
