Online Gambling is a form of gambling that takes place on digital platforms such as websites and mobile apps. It is most commonly performed using desktop computers and laptops, but can also be done on tablets and smartphones. Online gambling has grown rapidly, facilitated by advances in technology including mobile devices and secure payment systems, as well as advanced algorithms to ensure game fairness. This growth has heightened concerns about problem gambling and has led to the development of responsible gaming measures such as self-exclusion options and deposit limits.
The behavioural components of online gambling include a desire to win large sums of money and the allure of easy access to gambling sites. These factors can contribute to the onset of pathological gambling. This is exacerbated by the presence of social pressures from friends and online communities to gamble. In addition, online gambling uses a variety of psychological strategies such as visual and auditory stimulation, intermittent reinforcement schedules, and rewards with varying levels of intensity to increase the addictive potential.
Other risk factors for online gambling include co-occurring physical and mental health conditions, which can lead to a greater degree of comorbidity. This in turn can lead to higher rates of addiction and a greater incidence of gambling problems. Furthermore, individuals may resort to illegal activities like theft and fraud in order to fund their gambling habits, which can have severe legal consequences. This in turn can further escalate their gambling behaviour and make them even more preoccupied with the activity.