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Ten years ago, the typical problem gambler was a male in his middle age, holding a full-time occupation and possessing a college degree.
With the progress of online gambling, the average has now entered a new era.
According to the current recognition by the National Council on Problem Gambling, the typical problem gambler is identified as a male individual aged between 18 and 35.
With the commencement of Problem Gambling Awareness Month, we aim to draw attention to the contemporary image of problem gamblers.
Today’s problem gambler
The legalization of online sports betting and iGaming in Michigan last year brought about a permanent transformation in the gambling scene of the state.
Users now have the convenience of gambling without needing to go out, thanks to the advent of mobile apps. The gambling industry has been made accessible to them.
According to Michael Burke, executive director of the Michigan Association on Problem Gambling, the past 20 years have witnessed the most significant transformation in the gambling industry. From his standpoint as someone actively involved in the field, he highlights the shift from having to travel considerable distances to access casinos to now having the entire casino experience available at one’s fingertips. Previously, Michigan had only a limited number of casinos, but now every individual in the state carries a virtual casino in their pocket. This advancement has truly brought about a remarkable change.
The increased availability and focus on mobile technology have inevitably provided opportunities for younger individuals to engage in gambling. However, this also brings about a rise in younger individuals struggling with problem gambling.
Burke explained that the National Council conducted a comprehensive study on the emerging gambling trends. The study revealed that a distinct shift has occurred in the demographic of individuals participating in gambling activities. Specifically, young males aged between 18 and 35 are now the primary group facing issues related to problem gambling. This shift is attributed to their familiarity and comfort with the various technological devices employed for online gambling.
Looking back at problem gamblers of the past
As we assess the current situation, let’s reflect on the previous appearance of the problem gambler.
A 2011 study conducted by the University of Lethbridge in Alberta, Canada, aimed to understand the typical characteristics of problem gamblers. The study encompassed a substantial number of participants, including both North American and international gamblers, both those engaged in online gambling and those who did not.
The researchers discovered that, on average, male individuals in their early fifties constituted the typical retail gambler.
The research also examined the characteristics of individuals who gamble online, but it should be noted that back in 2011, access to internet gambling and available services were significantly restricted. During that period, individuals residing in the United States would have been required to utilize offshore sportsbooks for online gambling purposes.
The study’s results also indicated that, on average, the typical internet gambler in 2011 was a 45.7-year-old male.
In addition to the aforementioned, an equally significant portion of problem gamblers, exceeding 50 percent, encompassed various notable demographics.
- Married
- Minimum requirement: Completion of college education
- Employment on a full-time basis.
Despite change in age, same characteristics exist
While the average age of gambling addicts is decreasing, the traits of a problem gambler remain unchanged.
There are still numerous problem gamblers who find it difficult to recognize the warning signs they display.
Burke emphasized that the main issue lies in the fact that only 10% of compulsive gamblers actively seek assistance for their gambling addiction. This implies that the remaining 90% are likely facing similar struggles. He shared a quote that resonates with him, highlighting the insidious nature of addiction. The chains of addiction may initially seem feeble, but they gradually strengthen until they become unbreakable. By the time the gambler finally realizes their problem, it is often too late as they have already succumbed to addiction.
Burke, who has personally struggled with a gambling addiction, recognizes that the initial triumph serves as the initial step towards developing a gambling problem.
“In the end, individuals convince themselves that they can emerge victorious in the long term. This is why winning serves as the initial step towards addiction, often associated with a significant triumph,” explained Burke. “Consider a problem gambler who visits the casino on 20 occasions, only coming out ahead once. Yet, their memory solely fixates on that single successful trip, disregarding the 19 instances when they lost. They firmly believe that with enough play, victory is inevitable. This is known as the gambler’s fallacy. It all revolves around the casino’s advantage, an undeniable fact that everyone is aware of, as the casino certainly doesn’t hide it. However, for some inexplicable reason, compulsive gamblers convince themselves they can overcome it. They dismiss empirical evidence showing the possibility of sitting at a machine for a week without a win, or the chance of winning $1 million with a single pull. The gambler has no control over the outcome. Unfortunately, we often delude ourselves into thinking that we possess some form of control.”
Spreading awareness
Problem gambling awareness advocates are increasingly concerned as the average age of problem gamblers continues to decrease.
In the upcoming year, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and the Community Mental Health Association of Michigan aim to prioritize educating young individuals about the risks of gambling addiction.
Alia Lucas, a specialist in gambling disorder prevention and treatment at the MDHHS, explains that with the growing accessibility to gambling, there is a need to address the younger demographic involved in gambling. The goal is to provide them with more information about what gambling entails and recognize when it becomes problematic. Additionally, the focus is also on educating parents who often overlook the possibility of their children engaging in such behavior. The aim is to raise awareness among parents about the widespread prevalence of gambling among youth and young adults.
The Problem Gambling Symposium, which will be conducted virtually on March 3 and 4, will cover several topics, including the one mentioned. This two-day event will run from 8:30 a.m. to noon each day and is open to all interested individuals free of charge. However, registration is required before the event.
If you or someone you are acquainted with requires assistance regarding gambling-related problems, please reach out to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-270-7117.
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