THL Study Reveals Negative Attitudes Towards Gambling Among Finns, Despite High Participation Rates

A recent population study conducted by the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL) has shed light on the complex relationship between gambling attitudes and behavior in Finland. The study, which surveyed approximately 6,000 individuals in 2023, found that the majority of Finns hold negative views towards gambling, despite high participation rates and a reluctance to support a complete ban on the activity.

According to the study, an overwhelming 90% of respondents believed that gambling should be discouraged, while 61% felt that there are too many opportunities for gambling in the current climate. This negative sentiment was further reinforced by the finding that 55% of respondents considered gambling to be dangerous for family life.

Despite these critical attitudes, the study also revealed that 67% of respondents disagreed with the idea that gambling should be banned altogether, and 58% believed that people should have the right to gamble whenever they want to. Furthermore, 20% of respondents held the view that, on balance, gambling is good for society.

The survey also highlighted the prevalence of gambling in Finland, with 70% of people aged between 15-74 in mainland Finland having gambled in the past 12 months. Gambling was found to be most common among men and those aged 45-59.

One of the most concerning findings of the study was the estimation that approximately 151,000 people in mainland Finland have a gambling problem, with the issue being most prevalent among men and young adults. This underscores the need for effective prevention and treatment strategies to address problem gambling in the country.

THL Research Manager Anne Salonen commented on the findings, stating, "The attitudes towards gambling and several individual questions on the respondents' opinions reflect a change in attitudes that is in line with the changes that have occurred in gambling. The clearest changes in the decline in gambling and a more critical attitude towards gambling were observed in young adults. The opinions expressed by the respondents also revealed that there was a partial opposite trend in the views of women, men and people of different ages."

The study comes in the wake of new gambling regulations introduced in Finland at the start of the year, which mandated player identification for all Veikkaus games, the state-owned gambling monopoly. These measures aim to curb problem gambling and promote responsible gaming practices.

The THL study provides valuable insights into the complex and sometimes contradictory attitudes towards gambling in Finland. While the majority of Finns express negative views about gambling and its potential harms, there remains a significant level of participation and a reluctance to support a complete ban on the activity.

As policymakers and public health officials grapple with the challenges posed by gambling in Finland, it is crucial to consider the nuances revealed by this study. Effective strategies to reduce problem gambling and promote responsible gaming must take into account the diverse attitudes and behaviors of the population, as well as the potential unintended consequences of overly restrictive measures.

Ultimately, the THL study serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for evidence-based policies, public education, and support services to address the complex issue of gambling in Finland and beyond.