Do advertising and promotions for online gambling increase gambling consumption? An exploratory study

Figures & data

Table 1 Main form of Internet gambling and PGSI status of the general population sample.

Risk of gambling problems/Preferred form of Internet gambling	PGSI Low (PGSI 0–2)	PGSI High (PGSI 3+)	Total
Lotteries/Bingo/Keno	5	5	10
Sports betting	5	5	10
Horse or dog wagering	5	4	9
Poker	3	1	4
Casino games/EGMs	2	0	2
Multiple forms	5	10	15
Total	25	25	50

Table 2 Themes and sub-themes extracted from interview questions.

Focus of interview questions
•Participant history of using land-based and online gambling forms.•Features of online gambling contributing to gambling problems for participants.•Participant experiences of receiving and responding to advertising and promotions.
Themes	Sub-themes
Attracting new players	•Shifting access from land-based to Internet modes.•Taking up additional gambling forms using the Internet.•Taking up gambling for the first time using the Internet.
Increasing gambling by existing users	•Respond to notifications about draws, bonuses, good odds, betting tips.•Prompts opening of betting accounts.•Makes gambling more interesting and attractive.•Induces gambling, chasing of losses, addiction.
Triggering gambling by problem gamblers attempting to curtail gambling	•Reminders to gamble.•Tempting and encouraging bonuses.•Free bets and deposits.
Attracting lapsed users	•Welcome back promotions and bonuses.•Promotions offered when self-excluded.•Promotions offered when trying to close accounts.
Causing longer gambling sessions	•Play through conditions of some promotions.•Difficulties with withdrawing winnings.