See the convention agenda . It is anticipated that the number of compulsive and problem gamblers will continue to increase at an accelerated rate for 3 reasons. Legal gambling is accessible to the public because most states have legalized such activities as a way of generating revenues. The profile of today's compulsive gambler is truly democratic, all ages, races, religious persuasions, socioeconomic levels and education. Emotional nurturing is nearly non-existent.
Child discipline is strict but inconsistent.
Lost productivity is the source of other social costs. In at least two very different respects problem gamblers are proving to be a real boon to the gambling industry. First, and perhaps most surprisingly, problem gamblers are providing the industry with a potentially positive public relations opportunity. Denying that the problem exists, in the face of overwhelming evidence, would kill any credibility the industry has. On the other hand, admitting that the problem exists and proposing limited solutions makes the gambling industry out to be true defenders of the public good.