Abstract
This research aims to provide a two-pronged look at the implementation of legalized sports gambling across the United States. After a law restricting sports betting was struck down in 2018, all states became free to decide whether they wanted to allow people within their borders to bet on sports. This work focuses on the economic and social effects of legalized sports gambling. Given the recency of the decision, little research on legalized sports betting has been done in the U.S. outside of the state of Nevada. Economic effects are analyzed using handle (amount wagered) figures reported by states through various lenses, including methods of sports betting permitted, population, location of the state, and other factors that could affect economic success. The examination of social effects aims to shed light on how sports gambling is being viewed by college students, namely whether it is supported, viewed as “immoral,” stigmatized, if there should be restriction, what kinds of betting should be permitted, and whether sports betting is an overall benefit or harm to society. Social data was gathered through the distribution of a
survey to college students throughout the U.S. Although legalized sports gambling provides consistent positive economic returns, the most important determinant of economic success seemsto result from the allowance of mobile sports betting. Socially, respondents noted that they consider betting on sports “normal” and think some degree of it should be allowed, but that it should not necessarily be a part of the sporting experience. Respondents’ do not have a clear view of whether legalized sports gambling is considered an overall benefit or harm to society. Their views of sports betting as a stigma haven’t changed as states legalize the practice, suggesting they have a preexisting acceptance of the practice.
Sports and Society Statement
This research examines how college students feel about sports gambling, as well as how sports gambling affects the public economy. Sports gambling can affect both sport and society, as athletes and contest integrity can be compromised, and gambling can fundamentally change the interaction between fans/gamblers and the sports they wager on.