Electronic Interests and Behaviours Associated with Gambling Problems

Multiple computing devices continue to develop capabilities that support online gambling, resulting in the need to evaluate the extent that this trend will contribute to gambling problems. A sample of 1,141 participants completed an online survey assessing interest in and difficulties limiting use of digital services. Questionnaire items measured a range of behaviours associated with electronic service use (e.g., surfing, complaints). Results indicated that individuals utilising digital services and experiencing problems limiting their TV and Mobile phone usage were more likely to report gambling problems. These respondents were more likely to click on gambling-related links, report receiving larger amounts of spam, make more attempts to unsubscribe, and to click on links to counselling sites. Exposure and interest in electronic modes of communication can be associated with a greater risk of gambling related problems.