Characteristics of Sports Betters in an Epidemiological Study

ABSTRACT The potential impact of the recent legalization of sports wagering in the U.S. on rates of problem gambling is unknown, particularly in light of interactive media. The current study examines the self-reported behavior of 332 sports betters in a representative sample of 2,213 participants (\u3e18 years) in a statewide study on gambling. Results of univariate analyses and multiple regression modeling indicated: More than 97% of sports betters also bet on other forms of gambling, including daily fantasy sports (58%). Compared to other gamblers, those who bet on sports were more likely to be younger, male, undereducated (less than high school) and to report a physical limitation or disability. In addition, sports betters were more likely to smoke, binge drink, use illegal drugs, report a mental health problem in the past year and to seriously have contemplated suicide. Unlike a majority of other gamblers, sports betters gambled both online and in land-based venues; preferred activities were lottery, poker, live casino tables games, daily fantasy sports, and horse track betting. Finally, sports betters in the study were significantly more likely to score as moderate or high risk problem gamblers on the PGSI than other gamblers in the study. IMPLICATIONS: States are legalizing sports wagering without investigating the potential impacts on underage youth or young adults, who may subvert regulatory age limitations on interactive platforms. Our findings suggest these effects should be a serious concern. Suggestions for harm reduction, prevention, and education strategies targeting this group will be discussed