First Advisor

Christopher Carey

Date of Award

Spring 6-13-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Criminology and Criminal Justice and University Honors

Department

Criminology and Criminal Justice

Language

English

Subjects

sports gambling, NCAA, game integrity, student-athlete welfare, legal gambling, harassment

Abstract

This thesis examines the effects of legalized sports gambling on NCAA player welfare and the integrity of competition through a mixed-method analysis of NCAA reports, academic literature, and media sources. Data disclose that although the overall prevalence of gambling among student-athletes has decreased, these individuals are demonstrating more detrimental behaviors, including solitary gaming and incurring substantial losses in a single day. The emphasis on internet abuse associated with betting results has escalated, especially during prominent tournaments. The NCAA's instructional programs and data-monitoring agreements are compromised by ethical issues surrounding data monetization and varying state gambling rules. The research contends that improved athlete protection necessitates more robust and uniform policy improvements.

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