Visitor Suicides and Problem Gambling in the Las Vegas Market: a Phenomenon in Search of Evidence

The aim of this study was to find empirical evidence on whether problem gambling is, in fact, a determinant factor in visitor suicides in Las Vegas. The rate of visitor suicides was determined & then a qualitative analysis was performed to categorize the leading causes of the suicides. Emphasis was placed on the alleged relationship between problem gambling & suicide. Suicide files from the coroner’s office were used for the period 1990-1997. Findings indicate that in 94% of cases, gambling was not the determinant factor for the suicide. (19 notes)