A new poll was released on February 18 by the SCRI (Siena College Research Institute) and St. Bonaventure University’s Jandoli School of Communication. It found that 22% of Americans have an account with at least one online sportsbook. This includes 48% of men aged 18-49.
Bettors overwhelmingly say that placing wagers on online sportsbooks is fun and exciting. They believe it makes them more interested in the games and stimulates conversations with friends. Many also think they can make money from it.
However, 52% have chased a bet. This means they placed a larger wager hoping to recover losses. 37% have felt ashamed after losing, and 20% have lost resulting in having trouble meeting financial obligations. One-third of online sports gamblers know someone that has or had a problem with online betting. Yet, only 9% of bettors have ever called a problem gambling helpline. Few have sought other help to control their gambling behavior.
Director of SCRI, Don Levy said that online sports betting is everywhere. Nearly 60% of Americans frequently see sportsbook ads. While over one in five have an active account, another 5% have an account they no longer use.
He added that bettors, mostly young men, find online betting fun, interesting, and exciting. About 54% place bets at least once or twice a week.
Nearly 80% have taken advantage of promotions that award money for participation. While most believe they can make money gambling, only 30% say they have won more than they lost.
50-34%, a majority of all Americans agree that online sports betting should be legal in all 50 states. Nonetheless, by a margin of 65-22%, they agree that online sports betting will lead to compulsive gambling, causing harm to individuals and their families. Additionally, by 48-35%, they believe it will corrupt organized sports.
