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Clune S, Ratnaike D, White V, Donaldson A, Randle E, O'Halloran P, Lewis V. What is known about population level programs designed to address gambling-related harm: rapid review of the evidence. Harm Reduct J 2024; 21:118. [PMID: 38890632 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-024-01032-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 06/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gambling and gambling-related harm attract significant researcher and policy attention. The liberalisation of gambling in most western countries is strongly associated with a marked rise in gambling activity and increases in gambling-related harm experienced at the population level. Programs to address gambling-related harm have traditionally focused on individuals who demonstrate problematic gambling behaviour, despite clear evidence of the effectiveness of a public health approach to high-risk activities like gambling. Little is known about the availability or efficacy of programs to address gambling-related harm at a population level. METHODS The Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation commissioned a rapid evidence review of the available evidence on programs designed to reduce gambling-related harm at a population level. The review was conducted using a public health and harm reduction lens. MEDLINE, ProQuest Central and PsychInfo databases were searched systematically. Included studies were published in English between 2017 - 2023 from all countries with gambling policy contexts and public health systems comparable to Australia's; included primary data; and focused on primary and/or secondary prevention of gambling-related harm or problems. RESULTS One hundred and sixty-seven articles were eligible for inclusion. Themes identified in the literature included: risk and protective factors; primary prevention; secondary prevention; tertiary prevention; target population group; and public health approach. The evidence review revealed a gap in empirical evidence around effective interventions to reduce gambling-related harm at the population level, particularly from a public health perspective. CONCLUSIONS Addressing gambling-related harm requires a nuanced, multi-layered approach that acknowledges the complex social, environmental, and commercial nature of gambling and associated harms. Moreover, evidence demonstrates community programs to reduce gambling-related harm are more successful in reducing harm when based on sound theory of co-design and address the social aspects that contribute to harm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Clune
- Australian Institute for Primary Care & Ageing (AIPCA), La Trobe University, Melbourne Campus, Victoria, 3086, Australia.
| | - Deepika Ratnaike
- Australian Institute for Primary Care & Ageing (AIPCA), La Trobe University, Melbourne Campus, Victoria, 3086, Australia
| | - Vanessa White
- Australian Institute for Primary Care & Ageing (AIPCA), La Trobe University, Melbourne Campus, Victoria, 3086, Australia
| | - Alex Donaldson
- Centre for Sport and Social Impact (CSSI), La Trobe Business School, La Trobe University, Melbourne Campus, Victoria, 3086, Australia
| | - Erica Randle
- Centre for Sport and Social Impact (CSSI), La Trobe Business School, La Trobe University, Melbourne Campus, Victoria, 3086, Australia
| | - Paul O'Halloran
- Centre for Sport and Social Impact (CSSI), La Trobe Business School, La Trobe University, Melbourne Campus, Victoria, 3086, Australia
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne Campus, Victoria, 3086, Australia
| | - Virginia Lewis
- Australian Institute for Primary Care & Ageing (AIPCA), La Trobe University, Melbourne Campus, Victoria, 3086, Australia
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Adebisi T, Aregbesola A, Taiwo-Abdul T. Against the odds: exploring individuals' pushback mechanisms against commercialized football gambling. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1325465. [PMID: 38645456 PMCID: PMC11026854 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1325465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The need for money, the pursuit of pleasure, and the liberalized access to gambling have been documented in several pieces of literature as the drivers of gambling. Such drivers are predicated on commercialized gambling, leading to the growth of the gambling industry and constituting a structural influence that normalizes the activity among young people. Methods Through a qualitative inquiry, this study investigates the social agentic factors of individuals who are susceptible to gambling. Fifteen non-gamblers were recruited across three commercial cities in Africa, namely Nairobi, Lagos, and Johannesburg. We first established the gambling susceptibility of the participants: their need for money, their passion for football, ownership of a smartphone, access to the internet, and exposure to football gambling marketing. Results Consequently, we probed for their agency, which is indicative of why they do not gamble, despite being susceptible to engaging in the activity. Four major agentic factors were identified from the participants; knowledge of the industry's business model, conserving the integrity of football, identity of self, morality and/or religion model. Discussion As such, these factors may be utilized to develop an intervention program for gamblers within the geographical context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tunde Adebisi
- School of Sport, Faculty of Life and Health Sciences, Ulster University, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Ayooluwa Aregbesola
- Centre for Learning Resources, Timilehin Taiwo-Abdul - Department of Sociology, Landmark University, Omu-Aran, Nigeria
| | - Timilehin Taiwo-Abdul
- Centre for Learning Resources, Timilehin Taiwo-Abdul - Department of Sociology, Landmark University, Omu-Aran, Nigeria
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Valenciano-Mendoza E, Mora-Maltas B, Mestre-Bach G, Munguía L, Richard J, Derevensky JL, Potenza MN, Jiménez-Murcia S. Clinical Correlates of Sports Betting: A Systematic Review. J Gambl Stud 2023; 39:579-624. [PMID: 37004597 PMCID: PMC10066997 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-023-10196-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/04/2023]
Abstract
Sports betting is becoming increasingly widespread, and a growing number of individuals, both adolescents and adults, participate in this type of gambling. The main aim of this systematic review was to assess correlates of sports betting (sociodemographic features, gambling-related variables, co-occurring psychopathologies, and personality tendencies) through a systematic review conducted following the PRISMA guidelines. Relevant studies were identified via searches of NCBI/PubMed and APA PsycInfo databases. Individuals from the general population and/or with a clinical diagnosis of gambling disorder (GD) were included, irrespective of gender and age. In addition, the studies needed to have administered at least one clinical interview/psychometric instrument to assess the presence of problematic gambling/GD, contain at least one group of participants with sports betting, and directly analyze the association between sports betting and any of the following features: sociodemographics, gambling-related variables, co-occurring psychopathologies, and/or personality tendencies. Fifty-four articles were included. Multiple sociodemographic variables have been studied in relation to sports betting. In general, males with high impulsivity have greater tendencies for sports betting. The co-occurrence of certain pathologies, especially substance use or other addictive disorders, was also suggested. Most studies were cross-sectional, assessed participants using self-administered instruments, recruited samples using non-probability online panels, included small samples, had unbalanced samples, and included samples from only one country. Impulsive males may be particularly prone to sports gambling and related problems. Future research should examine prevention strategies that may help prevent the development of sport-betting-related GD and other addictive behaviors in vulnerable individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo Valenciano-Mendoza
- Clinical Psychology Unit, Bellvitge University Hospital, c/ Feixa Llarga s/n, 08907 Barcelona, Spain
- Psychoneurobiology of Eating and Addictive Behaviors Group, Neurosciences Programme, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Bernat Mora-Maltas
- Clinical Psychology Unit, Bellvitge University Hospital, c/ Feixa Llarga s/n, 08907 Barcelona, Spain
- Psychoneurobiology of Eating and Addictive Behaviors Group, Neurosciences Programme, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Lucero Munguía
- Clinical Psychology Unit, Bellvitge University Hospital, c/ Feixa Llarga s/n, 08907 Barcelona, Spain
- Psychoneurobiology of Eating and Addictive Behaviors Group, Neurosciences Programme, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jérémie Richard
- Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology, McGill University, Montreal, Québec Canada
| | - Jeffrey L. Derevensky
- Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology, McGill University, Montreal, Québec Canada
| | - Marc N. Potenza
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT USA
- Child Study Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT USA
- Connecticut Mental Health Center, New Haven, CT USA
- Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling, Wethersfield, CT USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale University, New Haven, CT USA
- Wu Tsai Institute, Yale University, New Haven, CT USA
| | - Susana Jiménez-Murcia
- Clinical Psychology Unit, Bellvitge University Hospital, c/ Feixa Llarga s/n, 08907 Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Clinical Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Ciber Fisiopatología Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERObn), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Psychoneurobiology of Eating and Addictive Behaviors Group, Neurosciences Programme, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Barcelona, Spain
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Torrance J, Roderique-Davies G, Thomas SL, Davies N, John B. 'It's basically everywhere': young adults' perceptions of gambling advertising in the UK. Health Promot Int 2021; 36:976-988. [PMID: 33270845 DOI: 10.1093/heapro/daaa126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
In comparison to jurisdictions, such as Australia, limited research has focused upon the perceptions and reported effects of gambling advertising within the unique gambling environment of the UK. An online qualitative survey was conducted with 62 young adult gamblers in the UK. The survey investigated the place, meaning and influence of gambling advertising within the lives of the participants. Demographic data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, with qualitative data interpreted using inductive thematic analysis techniques. Three themes were identified. Firstly, young adults were highly cognizant of UK gambling advertising strategies. Second, young adults were able to describe the influence of gambling advertising including its normalizing effect and proliferation of misleading messages. Finally, young adults perceived that current harm minimization strategies, including responsible gambling messages, were ineffective. Many were supportive of increased regulation of gambling advertising. The findings indicate that young adults are aware of the potential risks associated with gambling advertising and are supportive of regulatory reform. It is important that the views and perspectives of young adults are fully considered by regulators and policy makers in the UK, particularly as they are a potential target demographic for the industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie Torrance
- Addictions Research Group, School of Psychology and Therapeutic Studies, University of South Wales, Pontypridd CF37 1DL, UK
| | - Gareth Roderique-Davies
- Addictions Research Group, School of Psychology and Therapeutic Studies, University of South Wales, Pontypridd CF37 1DL, UK
| | - Samantha L Thomas
- Addictions Research Group, School of Psychology and Therapeutic Studies, University of South Wales, Pontypridd CF37 1DL, UK.,Faculty of Health, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Nyle Davies
- Addictions Research Group, School of Psychology and Therapeutic Studies, University of South Wales, Pontypridd CF37 1DL, UK
| | - Bev John
- Addictions Research Group, School of Psychology and Therapeutic Studies, University of South Wales, Pontypridd CF37 1DL, UK
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Torrance J, John B, Greville J, O'Hanrahan M, Davies N, Roderique-Davies G. Emergent gambling advertising; a rapid review of marketing content, delivery and structural features. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:718. [PMID: 33849493 PMCID: PMC8043759 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-10805-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gambling advertising is well-funded and has become increasingly sophisticated in recent years. As the presence and pervasiveness of gambling advertising increases, there is a corresponding need for empirical understanding of the characteristics and trends associated with emergent gambling advertisements and marketing. However, there is limited data on this rapidly evolving phenomenon. METHODS A rapid review was undertaken of the empirical research (2015-2020) that focused upon the content, delivery and structural features incorporated within emerging gambling advertising. RESULTS Twenty-five studies were included in the review. The majority of these studies were conducted in either the UK or Australia; two jurisdictions that have unique and particularly liberal gambling environments. The literature suggests that emergent gambling advertising content is targeted, positively framed and in some instances, may overrepresent riskier bets. The sporting and social media spheres are densely populated with such advertisements that involve both direct and indirect marketing strategies. In relation to the online environment, there is evidence to suggest the emergence of more interactive advertisements that prompt user engagement. In addition, financial incentivisation has diversified and is often subject to strict and esoteric conditions. Despite these emergent trends, little provision is devoted to adequately displaying harm reductive or responsible gambling content within gambling advertising. CONCLUSIONS Overall, there is a paucity of research and lack of methodological diversity concerning the characteristics of advertising within the literature. The barriers to investigating emerging gambling advertising are discussed alongside future research priorities. It is important for this research area to expand in order to appropriately inform ethical industry marketing and effective harm-reduction strategies. [Pre-registered online via Prospero: CRD42020184349].
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie Torrance
- Addictions Research Group, School of Psychology and Therapeutic Studies, University of South Wales, Pontypridd, CF37 1DL, UK.
| | - Bev John
- Addictions Research Group, School of Psychology and Therapeutic Studies, University of South Wales, Pontypridd, CF37 1DL, UK
| | - James Greville
- Addictions Research Group, School of Psychology and Therapeutic Studies, University of South Wales, Pontypridd, CF37 1DL, UK
| | - Marie O'Hanrahan
- Addictions Research Group, School of Psychology and Therapeutic Studies, University of South Wales, Pontypridd, CF37 1DL, UK
| | - Nyle Davies
- Addictions Research Group, School of Psychology and Therapeutic Studies, University of South Wales, Pontypridd, CF37 1DL, UK
| | - Gareth Roderique-Davies
- Addictions Research Group, School of Psychology and Therapeutic Studies, University of South Wales, Pontypridd, CF37 1DL, UK
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Newall PWS, Russell AMT, Hing N. Structural characteristics of fixed-odds sports betting products. J Behav Addict 2021; 10:371-380. [PMID: 33835942 PMCID: PMC8997226 DOI: 10.1556/2006.2021.00008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2020] [Revised: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS A literature exists on the structural characteristics of electronic gambling machines (EGMs), which are design innovations that can promote spending excessive time and money on these games. Fixed-odds sports betting products, where bettors place sports bets against a bookmaker, have also seen significant innovations in recent years. Despite some differences between these gambling products, similar structural characteristics could also be relevant to sports betting. The aim was to review previous research on contemporary fixed-odds sports betting products, and to identify whether structural characteristics from the EGM literature are also relevant to sports betting. METHODS Structural characteristics uncovered by two influential reviews of EGMs were identified, and their relevance to fixed-odds sports betting products discussed via a narrative review. RESULTS Structural characteristics of payout interval and potential betting frequency (in-play betting), multiplier potential (accumulators, complex bets, multis), win probability and payout ratio (all bets), bettor involvement (custom sports betting products, cash out), skill required (all bets), and near-misses (accumulators, complex bets, multis) were all identified in modern fixed-odds sports betting products. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Fixed-odds sports betting products have increasingly incorporated structural characteristics previously found in EGMs. Future research could further assess the extent to which these structural characteristics contribute to fixed-odds sports bettors spending excessive amounts of time and money while betting. These findings can help guide further sports betting research, contribute to an improved understanding of the potential universality of gambling product design, and inform policy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip W. S. Newall
- Experimental Gambling Research Laboratory, School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, CQUniversity, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Alex M. T. Russell
- Experimental Gambling Research Laboratory, School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, CQUniversity, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Nerilee Hing
- Experimental Gambling Research Laboratory, School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, CQUniversity, Bundaberg, QLD, Australia
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