All gambling products carry an element of risk. However, gambling products with certain characteristics are more likely to cause harm:
People experiencing harm from their own gambling tend to be more motivated to gamble because of the need to relax, escape or modify their mood. Evidence suggests that faster, more continuous or repetitive products best accommodate that need. As losses pile up, these products may increase some players’ experience of punishment instead of reward. This can result in more persistent play, as the player tries to escape feelings of discomfort.
Another higher risk gambling product is in-play betting. In-play betting is betting while a live event is taking place. Betting on live sporting events, like football or horses, also offers the opportunity for quick, repetitive betting and presents a higher risk of harm.
Please see a clip from a video about Darren’s experiences with product design:
If you would like to see the full video of Darren’s story you can view it here.