A comparison of gambling beliefs among people who bet on sports versus other forms of gambling in Singapore

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Author(s): Phua, Yi Xian Philip ; Pyun, Do Young ; Leng, Ho Keat

Journal: Journal of Gambling Issues

Year Published: 2022

Date Added: December 22, 2022

Gambling is a popular recreational activity. It is widely accepted in Singapore. Cognitive distortions are beliefs and assumptions that are exaggerated or untrue. Cognitive distortions related to gambling are linked with problem gambling and gambling frequency. The researchers compared the cognitions of people who bet on sports and people who gambled but not on sports. A total of 713 participants were recruited in Singapore. This included 80 participants who bet on sports, 270 participants who gambled on other activities, and 363 participants who did not gamble. Participants completed the Gamblers Belief’s Questionnaire (GBQ) and the South Oaks Gambling Screen (SOGS). People who bet on sports had higher scores for Luck/Perseverance than those who did not gamble and those who gambled on other activities. People who bet on sports also scored higher on the Illusion of Control than people who did not gamble and those who gambled on other activities. In addition, participants who bet on sports were more likely to have problem gambling based on the SOGS.

Citation: Phua, Y. X. P., Pyun, D. Y., & Leng, H. K. (2022). Cognitive distortions and problem gambling in sports betting. Journal of Gambling Issues, 50, 6-20. https://doi.org/10.4309/MXDF4708

Article DOI: https://doi.org/10.4309/MXDF4708

Keywords: cognitive distortions ; pathological gambling ; sports betting

Topics: Sports Betting

Conceptual Framework Factors: Gambling Types ; Psychological Factors ; Cultural Factors ; Cultural - Religion and Other Belief Systems

Study Design: Descriptive: Survey

Study Population: Participants had to be either a Singaporean citizen or a permanent resident (n = 713). They also had to be over 21 years old which is the minimum legal age for gambling in Singapore.

Sampling Procedure: This study was conducted in Singapore. Both men and women participants were recruited. Participants were recruited through convenience sampling. They were recruited at subway stations situated around Singapore.

Study Funding:

There is no funding associated with this study.