Prediction markets claim they're unlike sportsbooks. For gambling addicts and clinicians, it's all the same

""There may be real differences in how these products are defined or regulated, but in the therapy room, we are often seeing the same cycle of anticipation, action and reaction play out again and again.""

""I sometimes think of it like different doors into the same room. The label on the door may change, but once someone's inside, the experience can feel very familiar.""

Prediction markets have emerged as a new platform for gambling, leading to concerns among addiction specialists. Two gambling addicts reported relapses after engaging with prediction markets, despite previously taking steps to avoid traditional sports betting. Clinicians note that the experiences of anticipation and reaction in gambling remain consistent across different platforms. Dr. Cynthia Grant emphasized that while the regulatory definitions may differ, the underlying psychological patterns of gambling addiction are similar, indicating a need for awareness and potential regulation.

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