The advent of legal online sports betting in North Carolina has brought a wave of enthusiasm, particularly with the onset of March Madness 2024. As promotions from online sportsbooks flood the market, targeting fans of prestigious teams like UNC and Duke, the lure of these offers is palpable. However, beneath the surface of these enticing promotions lie hidden risks that could foster problematic gambling behaviors.
This article summarizes key findings related to sports betting promotions from Clinical Correlates of Sports Betting: A Systematic Review. This peer-reviewed study was published April 1st, 2023 on the Springer Journal of Gambling Studies by Eduardo Valenciano-Mendoza, Bernat Mora-Maltas, Gemma Mestre-Bach, Lucero Munguía, Jérémie Richard, Jeffrey L. Derevensky, Marc N. Potenza, and Susana Jiménez-Murcia. The study can read in full here.
Understanding Sports Betting Promotions
At first glance, sports betting promotions appear generous, offering to match deposits, provide bonus bets, or boost odds. Yet, these offers are strategically designed to increase user engagement and betting volume. Clinical Correlates of Sports Betting: A Systematic Review elucidates that such promotions aim to invigorate betting activities, leading to a diminished perception of risk and propelling more frequent and higher-stakes betting.
The Risks of Impulse Betting
The allure of these promotions can precipitate impulse betting, characterized by rushed decisions devoid of thorough risk assessment. The research underscores the danger, noting that “individuals are more likely to report problem gambling when influenced by frequent exposure to promotions” (Clinical Correlates of Sports Betting, 2023, p. 2). Driven by captivating promotional offers, bettors may face significant financial losses and struggle to control their gambling behaviors.
Online Sports Betting and Increased Gambling Frequency
The shift to online platforms has amplified the accessibility and prevalence of…
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