The rise of the internet has profoundly changed numerous industries, and gambling is no exception. The accessibility of Gambling Online has sparked considerable debate about its impact on gambling behaviors, particularly concerning problem gambling. While initial concerns suggested a direct link between internet gambling and increased problem rates, emerging evidence presents a more nuanced picture. This article delves into the intricate relationship between gambling online and gambling problems, examining recent research to understand the different facets of this evolving landscape.
Studies comparing gamblers across different platforms reveal intriguing patterns. Notably, research indicates that individuals who exclusively engage in gambling online may actually exhibit lower rates of gambling problems compared to those who gamble solely in traditional land-based settings or those who participate in both online and offline gambling activities. These findings, highlighted in studies by researchers like [48](#CR48), [51](#CR51), [56](#CR56)•], suggest that the mode of gambling plays a significant role in understanding gambling-related harm. Interestingly, the group facing the highest risk appears to be those who combine gambling online with land-based gambling. This elevated risk is likely associated with a greater overall gambling involvement, as these individuals are participating in gambling across multiple avenues [48](#CR48), [56](#CR56)•, 57••].
The connection between gambling online and the development of problem gambling is further clarified when considering the extent of gambling involvement. A study analyzing actual online gambling account data alongside self-reported gambling problem measures confirmed that the level of involvement in gambling activities is a strong predictor of gambling problems among online gamblers [58](#CR58)]. This involvement is quantified by factors such as the number of games played and the frequency of bets placed within a given period. This aligns with broader research in the field of gambling disorder, consistently demonstrating that higher levels of gambling involvement – encompassing expenditure, time commitment, frequency, and the variety of gambling forms – are closely linked to gambling problems [13](#CR13), 36, 52, 59–63]. Consequently, individuals who are heavily involved in gambling are more inclined to utilize online platforms, and this group is more likely to include individuals already struggling with gambling problems.
However, it’s crucial to avoid oversimplification. A study juxtaposing behavioral data from gambling online sites with self-reported problem gambling found that a high level of gambling involvement doesn’t automatically equate to gambling-related problems, and conversely, low involvement doesn’t guarantee the absence of such issues [64](#CR64)]. This crucial insight underscores that relying solely on a single metric like gambling frequency or expenditure is insufficient for accurately predicting gambling problems. A more holistic approach is necessary to understand the complexities of gambling behavior and its potential harms.
Research also suggests that individuals who already experience gambling problems are more prone to engage in gambling online compared to those without such problems [35](#CR35)•]. Studies indicate that a significant proportion of individuals facing gambling problems linked to gambling online attribute the origins of these problems to traditional land-based forms of gambling. Furthermore, over half of these individuals report having pre-existing gambling problems before they ever started gambling online [13](#CR13), 20]. This aligns with findings from a study indicating that problem gamblers who gamble online may actually prefer land-based gambling over gambling online [24](#CR24)].
When examining the specific types of gambling associated with problems in the context of gambling online, research points to some key areas. An Australian national survey revealed that nearly half of all gamblers identified land-based electronic gaming machines (EGMs) as the primary source of their gambling problems, even among those who also gamble online [13](#CR13)]. However, when focusing specifically on gambling online, individuals are more likely to associate their problems with casino games, sports and race wagering, and poker [13](#CR13), 20]. Notably, sports betting appears to carry a particular association with moderate risk and problem gambling in the online sphere, a pattern not as strongly observed among gamblers who solely use land-based options [13](#CR13), 20]. It’s important to note that this finding might be context-specific, potentially influenced by the legal status and popularity of sports wagering as a legal form of gambling online in Australia.
Conversely, it’s essential to acknowledge that for a segment of individuals experiencing problem gambling related to gambling online, this mode of gambling does appear to be the direct cause of their issues. These individuals report that their gambling problems began after they started gambling online, with approximately half specifically attributing their problems to this online mode [13](#CR13), 20]. These findings resonate with other research [57](#CR57)••, 48], suggesting a dual dynamic: for some, gambling online plays a significant causal role in the development of problem gambling, while for others, pre-existing gambling problems are likely amplified or exacerbated by the accessibility and nature of gambling online.
It is important to acknowledge a significant limitation in the current body of research. The majority of studies investigating the relationship between gambling online and gambling problems are cross-sectional. This design makes it challenging to establish causality, as it only captures a snapshot in time. Furthermore, reliance on self-reported data introduces potential biases and depends heavily on the accuracy of participant recall and reporting. To overcome these limitations and gain a deeper understanding of the causal pathways, longitudinal research is crucial. As gambling online continues to grow in popularity and prevalence, it is plausible that future generations of gamblers will encounter gambling online earlier in their gambling journey. This could potentially lead to a greater proportion of individuals attributing their gambling problems directly to gambling online. However, a growing consensus within the research community recognizes that individuals who gamble online are not a homogenous group. Future research needs to adopt a more nuanced approach, considering how gambling online behaviors are integrated within a broader spectrum of both online and offline gambling activities [48](#CR48), 65]. This comprehensive perspective is essential for developing effective prevention and intervention strategies in the evolving world of gambling.
