The Risks and Dangers of Online Gambling

Online Gambling is a huge and rapidly growing industry. But like other forms of gambling, it can be risky and addictive. Millions of people gamble through online casinos, sports betting sites, poker rooms and more. It can also cause problems with finances, relationships, and health. It’s important for adults and children alike to know about the risks and dangers of Online Gambling.

Several studies have explored the relationship between online gambling and problematic modes of gambling in adult populations. However, few have synthesised and systematised the available knowledge on the risk and protective factors associated with this behaviour. In addition, most papers analyse the association using cross-sectional methods and nonrepresentative samples.

A large proportion of those who engage in online gambling have comorbid physical and mental health conditions, which increases the likelihood of developing an addiction to this form of gaming. These comorbidities include substance use, depression and anxiety, family members who gamble, and problems in other life contexts such as academic performance (Gainsbury, 2015). While the vast majority of iGaming services are available to all age groups, it is important that trusted adults monitor the activity of young people in their care to ensure that they do not develop an unhealthy gambling habit. It is also important that they are aware of the risks and dangers of online gambling, and be able to recognise when gambling is becoming problematic. This may be evident by increased losses, increased frequency of gambling or an unwillingness to reduce gambling activities.