Easy access, endless bets: Why sports gambling is becoming harder to control
Increased accessibility and continuous betting options are making sports gambling more addictive, according to researcher Nigel Turner.Summary
Sports betting has rapidly evolved from a niche activity to one readily available to Canadians via their smartphones. CAMH scientist Nigel Turner explains that this convenience has increased both the number of people gambling and the potential risks associated with the behavior. While traditional sports betting involved infrequent wagers, the rise of “micro-bets” – wagers on nearly every moment of play – creates a continuous gambling experience akin to slot machines. Parliament legalized single-event sports betting in 2021, leading to market expansion and a surge in advertising, which remains a concern despite restrictions on celebrity endorsements. Turner advises recognizing signs of a gambling problem, such as dramatic mood swings and frustration even after wins, and emphasizes the importance of setting firm limits and only gambling with disposable income. He also notes that betting companies always have an advantage, and regulation alone cannot mitigate the risks of addiction.
(Source：Cp24)