The NCAA released the results of a survey that found many young people are engaging in sports betting, despite age and geographic restrictions in legalized sports betting. In response, NCAA President Charlie Baker called for an investigation to set a new standard for sports betting activity in light of the surge in online betting platforms and advertising that is being consumed by young people. Baker hopes to better understand how legal sports betting is affecting student-athletes and to help them navigate potentially disruptive movements.
The study surveyed 3,527 people aged 18-22 and found that 58% of respondents participated in at least one sports betting activity. The survey found that sports betting was widespread on college campuses, with 67% of students living on campus reporting participation in sports betting and placing bets more frequently. The survey also found that 41% of college students who bet on sports have placed bets on their school teams, and 35% have used student bookmakers.
The study also found that advertising has a significant impact on gambling behavior, with 63% of students on campus recalling seeing a gambling ad, and 58% of those remembering the ad reported being more likely to bet after seeing it. However, problematic gambling was found in this group, with 16% saying they had engaged in at least one risky act and 6% reporting losing $500 or more in a single day of sports betting.
The NCAA plans to conduct a student-athlete-only survey in the coming months. The organization intends to work with industry leaders, mental health professionals, law enforcement, and regulators to develop effective ways to protect the health of student-athletes and minimize the harm caused by gambling. The NCAA will continue to monitor, research, and analyze the situation closely.
In conclusion, the survey found that sports betting among young people is prevalent, and advertisement plays a significant role in their behavior. However, the NCAA aims to work towards protecting student-athletes from the harm caused by gambling.