University Of Buffalo Professor Tackles Problem Gambling Again

The state of gambling in the US has changed drastically over the past decade. There has been a movement towards much more liberal laws when it comes to gambling, and consequently, that may be leading to more problem gambling.

Senior Research Scientist John W. Welte, Ph.D., of the University of Buffalo Research Institute on Addictions, conducted an investigation on problem gambling back in 1999-2000. It was a highly revered investigation that gave answers to where problem gambling was taking place, in addition to how frequently it was taking place and with what consequences.

Now that the landscape has changed, Welte will once again be doing research on problem gambling. He has been given a $3 million grant from the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism to complete his study.

Welte will conduct phone interviews and do other behind the scenes research to try and set straight the varying opinions that exist these days about gambling expansion, and its effect on problem gambling figures. It is a debate that is taking place in every state capital across the US.

Many states have expanded their gambling laws, and opponents point to the potential for increased problem gambling as a way to keep the laws from being passed. Internet gambling has also been a hot topic, and Welke plans on addressing that subject in his new investigation.

Welte is expected to use data from his previous investigation in conjunction with new research that he will be completing. Included in the new investigation will be fantasy sports, office betting pools, and Texas Hold 'em poker.

"This research will examine trends in gambling behavior and gambling problems among US adults since 1999," said Welte, "Most importantly, we also will examine the relationship between gambling trends and changes in the social approval of gambling, changes in neighborhoods and changes in state gambling laws. Because localities control the location and density of such gambling opportunities as casinos or lottery outlets, voters and policy makers have some influence over the rates of problem gambling in our society."

August 19, 2009
Posted By Larry Rutherford
Staff Editor, CasinoGamblingWeb.com
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