Ethnicity and marginality effects on casino gambling behavior

This study examines the marginality and ethnicity dynamics in the context of differences in gambling behavior between the black and white residents of a mid-western state in the USA. Striking similarities between the many socio-demographic characteristics of black and white populations are noted. The results indicate combined influences of marginality and ethnicity on selected dimensions of gambling behavior, such as travel and spending. The study suggests that ethnicity plays a significant role in determining some aspects of leisure behavior, such as largest amount lost and total trip expenditures, and distance traveled (one way) to the most frequented casino regardless of social class. Further, marginality variations in gambling behavior, such as total trip expenditures and distance traveled, are noted.