Online gambling offers individuals the convenience of engaging in gambling activities whenever and wherever they wish. However, it can have significant negative effects on individuals’ lives. Gambling harms include financial losses and mounting debt, as well as poor health outcomes such as insomnia, deterioration of diet and sedentary lifestyle. Additionally, those who have a gambling addiction often experience withdrawal symptoms similar to those of substance dependence. Despite their efforts to stop or reduce gambling, they find themselves continually engaging in the activity and experiencing relapse.

A large number of studies have investigated the factors that influence Online Gambling. However, the majority of these have focused on individual and psychological determinants. High impulsivity and dysfunctional personality are associated with a greater likelihood of gambling online and being a problematic gambler. Individuals who are socially isolated and/or in low-income circumstances are at particular risk for gambling problems. The easy availability of gambling products and aggressive promotion in popular media also increase the risks of uptake.

The euphoric feelings that accompany winning and the allure of the potential for rapid riches are key motivations to gamble online. However, the frequent reversals in mood resulting from chasing losses lead to significant mental distress. This is further exacerbated by the fact that individuals can access gambling opportunities at any time and from any location, including their homes. This leads to significant emotional instability and a vicious cycle toto hk of gambling behavior. Moreover, the financial costs of chasing losses can deplete household resources and contribute to food insecurity or difficulties accessing housing and other basic needs.