UKGC Examines Link Between Problem Gambling and Gambling

Could certain gambling activities put you at higher risk of problem gambling? A new Gambling Commission report sheds light on how different betting verticals correlate with gambling harm. The study, based on findings from the Gambling Survey for Great Britain (GSGB), identifies specific gambling formats linked to higher Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI) scores. Understanding these insights is crucial for regulators, operators, and players alike. Stay informed as we break down the report’s findings and what they mean for the future of responsible gambling.

Gambling Commission Report Explores the Link Between Problem Gambling and Different Betting Verticals

Key Points:

1. Certain Gambling Activities Are Linked to Higher PGSI Scores
   • Casino games, slot machines, and in-person sports betting show a stronger correlation with problem gambling.
   • Non-sports betting and online scratchcards are also associated with increased gambling harm risk.
2. Some Gambling Formats Show No Direct Link to Problem Gambling
   • Charity lotteries, football pools, and bingo do not contribute to higher PGSI scores when accounting for external factors.
   • Online sports betting and National Lottery scratchcards also show no strong association.
3. The Report Builds on Existing Problem Gambling Research
   • The findings align with previous data used in the Gambling Act Review.
   • The study reinforces the importance of tracking gambling frequency and overall engagement.

New Gambling Commission Report Analyzes Gambling Activity and Problem Gambling Risk

The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) has released a new report examining the relationship between different gambling activities and Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI) scores. The study, based on the Gambling Survey for Great Britain (GSGB), highlights which types of gambling are more strongly associated with problem gambling behaviors.

According to the report, individuals with a PGSI score of 8 or more, which classifies them as experiencing problem gambling, tend to engage in certain gambling formats more frequently. These include:

• Casino games and fruit/slot machines
• Betting on non-sporting events
• In-person betting on sports or horse racing
• Online scratchcards and non-National Lottery instant win games

The report suggests that these forms of gambling are more closely linked to problem gambling risks, even when external factors like demographics and overall gambling engagement are considered.

Certain Gambling Activities Show No Direct Link to Problem Gambling

Interestingly, the report also identifies betting verticals that do not show a significant link to higher PGSI scores. These include:

• Charity lotteries and National Lottery scratchcards
• Online sports betting
• Football pools and bingo

While individuals participating in these activities may still experience problem gambling, these formats do not independently contribute to higher PGSI scores when controlling for other factors.

This suggests that the structure and accessibility of different gambling formats play a role in problem gambling risks. For example, casino-style games and high-frequency betting formats may encourage higher levels of engagement, increasing the likelihood of gambling-related harm.

How the Report Aligns with Existing Gambling Research

The UKGC’s latest report builds on existing research from the Gambling Act Review, providing further data to support regulatory decision-making.

In a blog post, Helen Bryce, Head of Statistics at the Gambling Commission, commented:

“We found that gambling involvement, measured by the number of activities and frequency of gambling, remains an important predictor of problem gambling, alongside engagement in specific activities.”

This reinforces the idea that problem gambling is not solely determined by the type of activity, but also by how frequently and extensively individuals engage in gambling.

What This Means for the Future of Responsible Gambling

With problem gambling remaining a key concern for UK regulators, the findings from this report could help shape future harm reduction strategies. The Gambling Commission continues to explore ways to better understand player behavior, ensuring that evidence-based policies are implemented to promote safer gambling environments.

In addition to this study, the UKGC has also published recent research on gambling motivations, analyzing why people gamble and how these reasons align with different betting verticals.

The latest Gambling Commission report offers valuable insights into which gambling activities are most associated with problem gambling risks. While some formats, like casino games and in-person sports betting, show a stronger correlation with gambling harm, others, like lotteries and online sports betting, do not appear to pose the same level of risk.

As the UK gambling industry continues to evolve, understanding the relationship between gambling behaviors and problem gambling will be critical. With ongoing research, regulators can develop more effective policies to promote responsible gaming and player protection.

For players, operators, and policymakers, staying informed about these findings is essential. By identifying risk factors and taking proactive measures, the industry can move toward a safer and more sustainable gambling environment.