Poll: Majority of Americans say online sports betting will create compulsive gamblers

As we approach the Super Bowl many people may be putting some money on the line for the game regardless if it's their favorite team or not.

OLEAN, N.Y. — As we approach the Super Bowl many people may be putting some money on the line for the game regardless if its their favorite team or not. 

According to a recent Siena Poll with St. Bonaventure University, 39% of Americans bet on sporting events. Of those who bet on sporting events, 19% have an account with an online sports betting service. 

Online sports betters say they bet because it's fun and exciting and makes it more interesting to them to watch game if they think they can make money on it. 

But what do the statistics say in terms of the negative effects surrounding betting? 

"Fifteen percent of all Americans including 22% of young men (18-49) and 30% of ‘avid’ fans know someone who has or had a problem with online sports betting," according to the poll. "Of those who place bets with an online sportsbook, 37% have felt bad or ashamed after losing a bet, 38% have felt that they bet more than they should have, 19% have lied to someone about the extent of their betting, and 18% have bet and lost money that was meant for meeting their financial obligations. By 65-23%, Americans agree that online sports betting will end up creating compulsive gamblers that will cause pain to them and their families."

“With 75% of Americans saying they’ve seen ads for online sportsbooks, it’s not surprising that one in five have an account,” said Don Levy, SCRI’s Director. “Bettors say it’s fun, and a plurality of all Americans, 48- 40%, agree that online sports betting is a great form of entertainment allowing fans to gamble responsibly.”

It also goes on to say that 40% of bettors have a feeling of shame surrounding their gambling habits. They also admitted that they have bet more money then they should have, or have had lied to someone about their betting. 

The poll also found that Americans say 65-23% online sports betting will create compulsive gamblers. 

Those looking to read the entire poll can click here. 

Online sports betting will be a focus tonight on 60 Minutes and then Monday in the latest release from St. Bonaventure...

St. Bonaventure University on Sunday, February 4, 2024