Clinical and psychological characteristics of Internet gamblers: web-based survey

July 2006 - December 2007

Participants

• Professor William H. Dutton, Oxford Internet Institute

• John Geddes, Oxford University Department of Psychiatry

• Guy Goodwin, Oxford University Department of Psychiatry

• Joanne Lloyd, Oxford University Department of Psychiatry

• Dr Victoria Nash, Oxford Internet Institute

• Dr Robert D. Rogers, Oxford University Department of Psychiatry

Abstract

Recent changes in the legislative framework governing gambling within the UK mean that Internet, and remote access, gambling is set to grow substantially within the next decade.

Internet gambling provides continuous and unrestricted access to a wide variety of gambling activities, including online betting and online gaming, with a very high degree of privacy. Little is known about how people use these services or the effects of the Internet on gambling behaviour more generally. This project aims to expand understanding of the subject by undertaking a web-based survey of users of Internet gambling sites. Respondents will be able to access the survey through links placed on a broad range of Internet gambling sites, all of which have shown commitment to responsible practice. Areas covered by the survey include:

• Demographic and occupational characteristics of users of internet gambling sites

• Type, frequency and extent of online/offline gambling

• Psychological characteristics, including any evidence of problem-gambling

• Attitudes to risk and gambling behaviour as an entertainment

This project has important implications for policy and practice, as improving our understanding of online gambling will inform regulation within the UK, and assist the design and provision of appropriate interventions for individuals who develop problems controlling their gambling behaviour when using online gambling sites.

Partners and sponsors

This project is a collaboration with the Oxford University Department of Psychiatry, funded jointly by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) (RES-164-25-0008) and the Responsibility in Gambling Trust (RIGT).

Last updated on: 2 February 2010