In recent years, gambling has become an increasingly present topic in the conversations of Italian families. Not only because the offer has grown, especially online, but because concern has also grown.
The latest investigations by Polling Europe, along with the data SWG and to the analyzes ofISTISAN, they show a very clear picture: the Italians play, but they do it with fear. A fear that concerns the wallet, right, but also health and family stability.
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A country that plays a lot, but he doesn't trust much
Italy remains one of the largest gaming markets in Europe. Nevertheless, second Polling Europe, the perception of the game has changed:
- it is seen as a risky business,
- potentially harmful,
- and too easy to reach, especially via smartphone.
The result is an ambivalent attitude: you play, but with the brakes on.
What SWG and ISTISAN say
The investigations SWG confirm that gambling is considered a widespread habit, almost "normal". But this normality coexists with a growing feeling of anxiety:
- fear of losing money,
- fear of losing control,
- fear that gaming enters too much into daily life.
L’ISTISAN adds an important element: the risk of addiction is real and concerns even the youngest. This increases the concern of families, who fear economic and psychological consequences.
The three main fears of Italians
Three very real fears emerge from the research:
1. The economic risk: in a time of uncertainty, gambling is perceived as an unpredictable expense, capable of putting the family budget in difficulty.
2. Addiction: the fear that gaming could turn into a habit that is difficult to control is increasingly widespread.
3. Always accessible online: the ability to play at any time increases the feeling of vulnerability.
Because this concerns the family economy
Gambling is not just a social phenomenon: it is a topic that directly affects money management. An unplanned expense, repeated and often hidden, it can become a serious problem for the economic stability of a family. Understanding how Italians perceive the game helps to better understand behaviors, to prevent risks and protect your financial balance.
Alex Gaetani
Sources
This article is based on three information pillars that, in recent years, have contributed to accurately photographing the relationship of Italians with gambling. The first source is theHigher Institute of Health, than with the ISTISAN report dedicated to gambling. Another fundamental contribution comes fromindagine SWG, created in collaboration with IGT. Finally, the European picture was reconstructed through the analyzes disseminated by Polling Europe and by various observers who monitor the gaming market in the various countries of the Union.