Betting is one of the biggest industries in the world, especially when it comes to sports betting. Figures have shown that addiction to sports betting is becoming increasingly problematic, and this is partly down to the ease of access to mobile betting sites and apps.
Addiction To Sports Betting Down To Ease Of Access To Mobile Apps
The sports betting industry is absolutely enormous. Not only is it at an all-time hight right now, but it will continue to grow at a rapid rate. That is for sure.
It is almost impossible to watch a sporting event now without seeing an advertisement for a sportsbook. Whether this be at a football match, an NFL game, a boxing event or a golf tournament, no matter the sport, sports betting is extremely prominent.
Watching a game of Premier League football for example. The bright advertising boards around the pitch will constantly shown different offers and bonuses from various sports betting sites. Not only that, but adverts at half-time on your TV will often offer in-play sports betting offers.
Ads telling you the bonuses for putting in more money or betting on a certain game. Now more than ever, it’s easier to gamble right from your mobile phone.
Mary Drexler, a researcher at the Maryland Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling, says there are a number of factors that make sport betting more problematic than regular gambling:
“We’re seeing some people who may never have gambled, and we’re seeing some people who gambled less frequently gambling more because of the convenience of it.
“Research is showing that it definitely, online and mobile and sports betting, there is a degree much more of ending up with problem gambling or a gambling disorder,” said Drexler.
There are ways for people to stay safe while they’re gambling, like setting limits and being aware of the advertising. However, the ease of access to sports betting on a mobile phone is increasingly problematic. You can literally place a bet in a matter of clicks. It takes just seconds!
“We hope that those that are online are putting enough information up front about where to go for help if you think you’re starting to have a problem, so that’s not hidden somewhere,” said Drexler.
Drexler went on to add that mobile sports betting is drawing more young men to gamble than any other demographic. The warning signs are there and there needs to be more done to combat sports betting addiction and ease of access to mobile sports gambling.
Paul has worked in sports as a writer ever since graduating from Liverpool John Moores University back in 2020, where he attained a First Class Honours Degree in Sports Journalism. Paul is comfortable writing about all sorts of different sports, but specifically specialises in boxing, golf, MMA, darts and horse racing. Paul's vast knowledge of worldwide sport means he is capable of covering almost any sport, including popular US sports such as NFL, NBA and MLB. Paul has years of experience covering sport for BBC Sport, as well as being a regular contributor at ESBR Boxing. Paul gained vital experience at BBC Radio 1 and Everton Football Club during his time at university, aiding his knowledge of the writing world. Paul has had the opportunity to attend big live sporting events and work as a reporter on numerous occasions. His experience writing on both live sports and sports betting content means he is comfortable with all aspects of sports reporting. As well as writing for Betting Sites, Paul's wealth of knowledge in a whole host of sports converts into writing in depth stories and providing reliable betting picks regularly.
