Netherlands gambling normalization raises public health concerns

"Fresh research from the Kansspelautoriteit (KSA) shows nearly a quarter of Dutch adults, 24%, believe people around them see gambling as normal behavior. Men were significantly more likely than women to share that view. The regulator surveyed 1,000 residents and found that when gambling comes up casually in conversations with friends or family, people are more likely to join in themselves."

""For many, gambling problems don't appear overnight and often stay under the radar," said Kansspelautoriteit chair Michel Groothuizen in a translated statement. The regulator says discussions about betting often focus on big wins or fast cash. That upbeat framing, it argues, can romanticize gambling and make it tougher for people to recognize when things are going wrong or to speak openly about concerns."

"Some 43% of respondents said they would be less inclined to gamble if no one in their immediate circle did. Meanwhile, 18% reported regularly hearing gambling described as an easy way to make money. More than three-quarters of those surveyed said they see gambling problems mainly as the result of poor choices rather than addiction. Many also admitted they would struggle to confront someone they suspected might be in trouble."

Kansspelautoriteit (KSA) surveyed 1,000 Dutch residents and found 24% believe people around them see gambling as normal, with men more likely to hold that view. Casual conversations about betting increase the likelihood that individuals will join in. Social influence is strong: 43% said they would be less inclined to gamble if no one in their immediate circle did, and 18% regularly hear gambling described as an easy way to make money. Over three-quarters view gambling problems as poor choices rather than addiction, and many would struggle to confront someone suspected of having a problem. Research from the University of Sheffield linked televised gambling ads during the 2022 World Cup to increased betting, including among people who had not planned to bet.

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