Study: Problem Gambling Rate Among Active US Military Members 3.5 Times Higher Than in General Population

Study: Problem Gambling Rate Among Active US Military Members 3.5 times higher than in General Population.

Study: Problem Gambling Rate Among Active US Military Members 3.5 times higher than in General Population. The study looked at 3,050 active members of the military, veterans, and civilians. It found that the problem gambling rate among active military was 68.6%, compared to 18.7%. The sample size was too small. Dr. Nathan DL Smith, executive director of Kindbridge Research Institute, believes that more studies are needed to confirm the results.

Department of Defense operates more than 3,000 slot machines on US military bases outside of the country. The machines bring in over $100 million in revenue for the government each year. Department of Defence is more lax in its gambling regulations than essentially any jurisdiction that regulates gambling. Active military personnel seek help for problem gambling less often than other people. If they don't come forward and seek the help, they risk consequences for their military career.