2021 National Survey Reveals Surge in Risky Gambling Behavior Since 2018

2021 National Survey Reveals Surge in Risky Gambling Behavior Since 2018

By Michael Davidson

January 21, 2025 at 03:35 AM

A comprehensive national survey conducted in April 2021 revealed significant changes in gambling attitudes and behaviors across the United States. This research, known as NGAGE 2.0, provides crucial insights into gambling trends when sports betting was legal in 21 states.

Key Findings:

  • Risky gambling behavior increased significantly from 2018 to 2021
  • Major risk factors include:
    • Participation in multiple gambling activities
    • Believing gambling is a good way to make money
    • Fantasy sports and sports betting involvement
    • Frequent investment trading
    • Being under 45 years old

Hand analyzing trends dashboard data

Hand analyzing trends dashboard data

Important Trends:

  • Young adults remain at highest risk for gambling problems
  • Online wagering showed substantial growth
  • Sports betting participation rates were similar regardless of state legalization status
  • COVID-19 significantly impacted gambling behavior
  • Frequent investors showed high levels of problematic gambling

Checklist with multiple marked checkboxes

Checklist with multiple marked checkboxes

Additional Insights:

  • Gambling continues to be a popular American activity
  • Many people still misunderstand or stigmatize problem gambling
  • The expansion of legalized gambling requires coordinated efforts between governments, industry, and service providers to minimize potential harm

Research Methodology: The survey was designed by NCPG in partnership with Ipsos, utilizing their expertise as the third-largest global market research organization to ensure reliable data collection and analysis.

Person gambling on mobile phone

Person gambling on mobile phone

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