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New Evidence from the Grey Area: Danish Results for At-risk Gambling

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Abstract

This study investigates the differences between at-risk gamblers and no-risk gamblers to provide a closer inspection of the characteristics and gambling behavior of at-risk gamblers. The data stem from the first Danish large-scale nationwide study, in 2005, followed by a second wave interview in 2006. The first wave sample consists of 4,932 current gamblers with no current gambling problems or pathology, and the second wave re-interviewed 379 of them. The analysis involves both a logistic regression and cross-tabulations. The results show that at-risk gamblers and no-risk gamblers have significantly different socio-demographic profiles and gambling behaviors. At-risk gambling is more prevalent for men, young-to-middle-aged people, and immigrants, and at-risk gamblers are more likely to have low income, low education, and no children living at home. This study shows that playing high-risk games substantially increases the odds for at-risk gambling. This finding is important for all professionals involved in preventive work.

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Acknowledgments

The author is grateful to Sune Thomas Neye for very helpful research assistance and Connie Nielsen for participating in some discussions. The author acknowledges financial support from the Danish Social Research Council, FSE.

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  1. The Danish National Centre for Social Research, Herluf Trolles Gade 11, 1052, Copenhagen K, Denmark

    Stéphanie Vincent Lyk-Jensen

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  1. Stéphanie Vincent Lyk-Jensen
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Correspondence to Stéphanie Vincent Lyk-Jensen.

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Lyk-Jensen, S.V. New Evidence from the Grey Area: Danish Results for At-risk Gambling. J Gambl Stud 26, 455–467 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10899-009-9173-5

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10899-009-9173-5

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