The integration of the internet into gambling activities has changed some key situational and structural features. The most significant change is the shift of gambling activities to the home and workplace environment. Therefore, online gambling can become a home or work activity.
One of the biggest concerns associated with these changes and the increase in gambling opportunities is the potential rise in the number of problem and pathological gamblers.
Determining the prevalence of online gambling addiction is difficult because it’s a habit that is constantly evolving and has grown relatively quickly over the past decade.
Symptoms of online gambling addiction include excessive preoccupation with online gambling, mood swings, an increase in the amount of money spent, an inability to quit or reduce gambling, insomnia, chasing losses, intense cravings, and lying about gambling habits.
Psychological effects of online gambling addiction include anxiety, depression, emotional instability, guilt, and shame, as well as a reduced ability to cope with everyday life.
Treatment options for online gambling addiction include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI), medications, support groups, and mindfulness and relaxation techniques.
Popularity Among Youth is Increasing!
Although online gambling is typically less common than offline gambling, a recent analysis of international research published by Montiel and colleagues in the Journal of Behavioral Addictions in 2021 revealed that 5-15% of adolescents engage in online gambling, with significant differences between countries.
However, the study noted that the increasing legalization and widespread availability of online gambling, coupled with technological advances, has contributed to its growing popularity, particularly among young people.
Why is Online Gambling Addictive?
Online gambling is addictive due to its accessibility, ease of use, and the psychological processes it promotes. The constant availability of online gambling platforms allows individuals to participate in gambling activities whenever they want, often from the comfort of their own homes.
This high level of accessibility leads to frequent and prolonged gambling sessions. Additionally, the addictive potential of online gambling is heightened by various psychological strategies. These include the use of visually and audibly engaging elements to create an immersive experience, as well as intermittent reinforcement schedules that keep players engaged with unpredictable rewards.
Pathological gambling develops as individuals become increasingly preoccupied with the activity, chasing losses, and continuing to gamble despite negative consequences. People can more easily hide their gambling activities thanks to the anonymity provided by online platforms, which worsens the problem.
Findings from the study “Blackjack in the Kitchen: Comparing Online Gambling to Casino Gambling” by June Cotte and Kathryn A. Latour in 2009 showed that online gamblers tend to gamble more regularly and aggressively.
This is because it’s harder to hide gambling in person at a casino. On the other hand, very little effort is required to access online gambling; it becomes an integral part of regular household routines, leading to longer gambling sessions.
Moreover, due to the lack of social connection, individuals participate in online gambling primarily for the game itself rather than for any other reason. This appeals to their competitive nature, increasing the likelihood of addiction.