The Proportion of Ontario Gambling Revenue Derived From Problem Gamblers

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Date
2007-09
Authors
Williams, Robert J.
Wood, Robert T.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Toronto Press
Abstract
The proportion of gambling revenue derived from problem gamblers is an important issue when considering the appropriateness of government-sponsored gambling. Figures obtained from prior research are tentative due to methodological problems and the mismatch between reported expenditures and actual gambling revenue. Using improved methods for assessing the prevalence of problem gambling and self-reported gambling expenditures, the present study estimates that the 4.8% of problem gamblers in Ontario in 2003 accounted for approximately 36% of Ontario gambling revenue. This proportion varied as a function of game type, with a lower proportion for lotteries, instant win tickets, bingo, and raffles and a higher proportion for horse racing and slot machines. Key Words: gambling, problem gambling, government, Ontario, OLG
Description
Sherpa Romeo yellow journal. Permission to archive accepted author manuscript
Keywords
Gambling -- Economic aspects -- Ontario , Compulsive gambling -- Economic aspects -- Ontario
Citation
Williams, R. J., & Wood, R. T. (2007). The proportion of Ontario gambling revenue derived from problem gamblers. Canadian Public Policy, 33(3), 367-387.