Watching sports has traditionally been a popular pastime, but recently another aspect of the games has come into focus: betting. Advertisements for sports gambling have been ubiquitous, but some argue they need to be curtailed to avoid normalizing risky behavior, especially among vulnerable groups like youth.
Pat Mazza, an advocate and founder of The Gambling Clinic, has voiced concerns about the proliferation of sports betting promotions, saying they make watching matches seem like “a casino on TV.” The central issue, he says, is that they actively market gambling, which can fuel addiction. Mazza points out the potential perils like unpayable debts, damaged relationships, anxiety, depression, even suicide. The American Psychiatric Association classifies “gambling disorder” as an official diagnosis.
Since Canada legalized single-event sports betting in August 2021, ads have surged, with billions in revenue at stake. However, Mazza argues the ads target young male sports fans and portray gambling as mainstream, increasing the odds they will bet. Repeated exposure and “triggers” in the ads, like promoting in-game smartphone bets, also threaten those with gambling problems.
Research links problem gambling to health issues like substance abuse, mental illness, and chronic disease. Homeless people especially are at risk, with problem gambling rates up to 58% compared to 6% of the general public.
Mazza urges recognizing the harm from ads and online gambling promotion to youth and vulnerable groups. Studies show exposure normalizes gambling and ups participation and spending. In Canada, over 300,000 are at risk of gambling problems. Mazza suggests less enticing ads and later airtimes to limit youth exposure.
While sports betting is legal and regulated, it remains potentially addictive. Ads should be restricted to avoid normalizing the behavior, especially to those prone to problems, some experts argue. The issue involves balancing personal freedoms with public health, but most agree youth and vulnerable groups warrant particular protection.
Pat Mazza
