Some researchers funded by predatory gambling interests attempt to argue that after the introduction of extreme forms of gambling into a community addiction rates will spike but then, over a period of years, addiction rates will decline once people “adapt” to its availability. It is called the “social adaptation theory.” Here is a memo showing why this theory is misplaced and how the only thing people are adapting to is losing more money than ever before.
“Beaten By The Odds: Gambling With Your Future” | AARP Bulletin
By John Rosengren “With new forms of gambling booming in America, some retirees are going bust.” BUL_MAY-JUN_2026