People in prison have some of the highest rates of problem gambling. The purpose of this study was to examine gambling activity before and while in prison. Specifically, the researchers examined the prevalence and types of gambling before and during incarceration, as well as the reasons for gambling in prison and any links to problem gambling. The researchers surveyed 282 volunteers who were in a Category B male prison in England. About 45% of participants gambled in prison. Many (30%) believed that gambling was a normal part of prison life. Gambling while in prison was not linked to pre-prison behaviour, type of offence, or prior gambling. Participants who gambled in prison were more likely to have problem gambling. Participants gambled in prison mostly for entertainment, for excitement, for a sense of challenge, and to win prizes. These motives were different for participants with different levels of problem gambling risk. Most participants gambled in prison using canteen items. Participants with problem gambling were more likely to have borrowed money from others to gamble while in prison.
