Online Gambling involves placing bets on games of chance or skill for money through a computer, tablet or smartphone with an Internet connection. It can be addictive and lead to a variety of negative consequences, including gambling-related disorders. Treatment options include self-exclusion from gambling platforms, use of content blockers, limiting access to funds, managing gaming triggers, and seeking professional help for underlying mental health conditions.
Research indicates that financial motivations play a significant role in the development of gambling problems. People who gamble may also experience mood swings that cause them to engage in more betting, despite the fact that they are losing. These mood swings are triggered by the anticipation and excitement of winning, as well as the disappointment and frustration of losing. Moreover, online gambling is more accessible and convenient than traditional forms of gambling, making it easier to engage in.
Other factors that contribute to the development of gambling problems include co-occurring physical and mental health conditions, and genetic predisposition. The latter factor is believed to account for half of the variance in gambling behavior.
Often, young children and teenagers are introduced to gambling behaviours through features in popular online video games such as loot boxes and skin betting. This can have serious repercussions, as evidenced by cases of children and young people developing gambling problems. Trusted adults can play a critical role in educating children and young people about online gambling and gambling-adjacent behaviours, and how to recognise signs of problematic gambling.