CT: Spectrum Gaming Report #5

Section II: Extent of Problem Gambling
Spectrum Gaming Group was contracted
to evaluate the incidence of chronic gambling as defined by Connecticut C.G.S.
Sec. 17a-713:
A person who is chronically and progressively preoccupied with
gambling and the urge to gamble and with gambling behavior that compromises,
disrupts or damages personal, family or vocational pursuits.

The definition is similar to that of the National Council on Problem Gambling which described problem gambling as behavior that causes disruptions in any major area
of life. It went on to say problem gambling included pathological or compulsive
gambling, a progressive addiction.

Although the overwhelming majority of Connecticut residents find gambling harmless entertainment and an enjoyable recreational activity, some regular gamblers develop significant problems that can also harm people close to them.
– page 39 Spectrum Gaming Group (SGG)
“Gambling in Connecticut” 2009


Below, we convert the percent of problem and probable pathological gamblers into numbers of Connecticut residents 18 years or older who fall into the different categories based on the SOGS screen.

Probable pathological gamblers:
0.7 percent, past year
18,667
1.5 percent, lifetime 40,001

Problem gamblers:
0.9 percent, past-year 24,001
2.2 percent, lifetime 58,669

Combined rates for problem and probable pathological gamblers
1.6 percent, past year 42,668
3.7 percent, lifetime 98,670

– page 42 Spectrum Gaming Group
(SGG) “Gambling in Connecticut” 2009

The Spectrum Gaming Report prepared for the CT DOSR is availble on the United to Stop Slots in Massachusetts web site. It's worth reading.