Should Problem Gamblers Participate in
Online Gambling?
The fact is, problem gamblers are more likely to engage in online gambling than offline
gambling. This is because online gamblers are more likely to engage in other activities, such as
gambling with illicit drugs. These problem gamblers also tend to be in denial about their
gambling problems. Regardless of their reasons for engaging in online gambling Thai Casino, these
individuals need to be encouraged and supported to quit. Families can provide encouragement
and support if they suspect that someone close to them is engaging in problem gambling.
Problem gamblers are more likely to participate in online
gambling than offline gamblers
Internet-based gambling may be more attractive to problem gamblers than traditional casinos.
Online gambling sites use clever psychological cues to appeal to problem gamblers. As with real-
life casinos, gambling online can be addictive and compulsion-like. Eventually, it may lead to the
destruction of relationships, careers, and health. The question is: should problem gamblers
participate in online gambling?
A study of the characteristics of problem gamblers in both offline and online settings suggests
that problem online gambling is more appealing to people with higher incomes and education.
However, future studies need to examine whether differences exist between problem online and
offline gamblers and how these characteristics relate to the likelihood of becoming a problem
gambler. Online gambling may also be more attractive to problem gamblers because of its
immersive quality.
Problem gamblers are more likely to use illicit drugs while
gambling
The link between problem gambling and the use of drugs and alcohol is not a new one. Several
studies have found that people who are addicted to alcohol or drugs are more likely to engage in
problem gambling. The connection is particularly strong with problem gambling, as it often
reinforces drug use and can prevent people from achieving long-term abstinence. Moreover,
problem gamblers who also struggle with depression are more likely to engage in gambling
while on treatment for alcohol or drug addiction.
While women from small towns and villages are more likely to be commercially active gamblers
than men, the harms of gambling are similar between males and females. In addition, Larsen et
al. found that problem gamblers who were defined as problem gamblers in the DSM-IV were
more likely to use alcohol than problem gamblers who were younger. Similarly, Pitt et al.
reported that problem gamblers were less likely to use illicit drugs while gambling online than
non-gamblers.
Problem gamblers are more likely to be in denial about their
problem gambling
Symptoms of problem gambling online may include excessive spending on the site,
preoccupation with the game, chasing losses, and a lack of self-control. Problem gamblers may
also feel compelled to borrow, sell, or steal to fund their gambling habit. Family members and
friends of problem gamblers should be encouraged to raise concerns and do not shy away from
seeking help. Adult children and parents of problem gamblers may be reluctant to seek help from
their parents. But it is never too late to seek help.
The ability to rationalize gambling behaviors makes problem gamblers more likely to deny their
behavior. They may also hide their losses from others or blame it on their partners. Sadly, many
problem gamblers have spent more money than they had intended, and they have accumulated
gambling-related debts. Eventually, these problem gamblers can even become bankrupt
because they do not know how to handle their finances.