Deviance

Deviance is defined as a state or behaviour that goes against a society’s social norms. Some people view deviant behavior as a medical condition or form of mental illness. This view has been adopted by many people in relation to gambling, dating back to the 1970’s.

Although research on gambling as a deviant behaviour is rare, some researchers believe that deviant behaviour may be caused by an underlying behavioural syndrome.  One study found high rates of deviant behaviour in groups of friends that gambled informally.  Another study found high rates of problem gambling in prison populations. People who commit crimes may do so to obtain money to support their regular gambling. For example, a study in Denmark found problem gambling to be associated with economic crimes and drug charges.

Download the two-page Social Factors summary (PDF)
Also available in:  Francais   |   Spanish   |   Mandarin

Download the Social Factors section from the Conceptual Framework of Harmful Gambling (PDF)

Download the complete Conceptual Framework of Harmful Gambling (PDF)

Search the Evidence Centre for Deviance