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Neutralizing marginally deviant behavior: Bingo players and superstition
1Department of Sociology/Anthropology, Hiram College, 44234, Hiram, Ohio.
Journal of Gambling Studies
|November 19, 2013
Summary
Bingo players often feel morally conflicted about gambling. This study reveals how they use superstitious strategies, like luck and hunches, to justify their participation in this popular activity.
Area of Science:
- Sociology of Gambling
- Deviant Behavior Studies
Background:
- Bingo is a widespread and accepted form of gambling in the United States.
- Despite its popularity, players experience moral discomfort regarding their gambling activities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the strategies bingo players employ to reconcile their participation in gambling with their moral beliefs.
Main Methods:
- A 5-year participant observation and interview study was conducted.
- Data collection focused on understanding players' perspectives and behaviors.
Main Results:
- Bingo players utilize superstitious strategies, including feelings, hunches, psychic abilities (psi), attitudes, and luck.
- These strategies serve to neutralize the perceived moral deviance associated with playing bingo.
Conclusions:
- Superstitious beliefs and practices are key mechanisms for managing moral ambivalence in gambling.
- Understanding these neutralization techniques provides insight into the social acceptance and continuation of activities like bingo.
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