In this study, the researchers looked at whether features of sports betting platforms that encourage continuous, rapid betting are linked to greater gambling harm. The researchers surveyed 169 adults living in Australia who bet on sports or races at least monthly. Participants were split into two groups based on whether they were at higher or lower risk of gambling harm, assessed using the Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI). Those who scored 5 or higher were considered to be at higher risk.
Participants at higher risk of gambling harm were more likely than those at lower risk to use certain betting product features more often, including in-play or live betting, instant cash-out, and live-streaming of sports events through betting apps. They were also more likely to deposit money into their betting accounts immediately to access promotional offers and to not get enough sleep due to betting. The findings suggest that some betting product features are more commonly used by people who are at higher risk of gambling harm. These features might promote an “online sports betting loop” and contribute to further harm.
