The Total Consumption Model Applied to Gambling: An Analysis of Gambling Accounts Records in Norway

The total consumption model (TCM) posits a positive association between total consumption and rate of excessive consumption or related problems in a population. This study examined whether TCM applies to gambling. Data from 40,000 Norwegian gambling customers was examined. The findings lend support to the validity of the total consumption model with regard to gambling.

Quantitative Data

• 7% of the total sample of customers had net total losses on their gambling across all games in 2019.

Qualitative Data

• Demographics of age and gender showed higher net gambling losses when compared to place of residence.
• Research shows that problem gambling is not merely a reflection of individual vulnerability to intensive gambling, but an integral part of total gambling in a society.
• Problem gambling is associated with a high risk of harms from gambling.
• Average losses increased as the prevalence of excessive gambling increased.

Protective Factors

• Policies on gambling regulation.

Identified Conclusion

• These findings are in line with those reported by Hansen and Rossow (2012) for gambling, and similar studies pertaining to alcohol consumption, and addictive drug use.
• Acceptance of collective responsibility for the populations’ health is needed.
• Change population patterns of gambling consumption to prevent gambling harms.
• Increased risk of experiencing harms associated with increased gambling activity.

Identified Recommendations

Preventative Action

• • Implement measures that reduce gambling consumption for the whole population, not just those who gamble heavily or excessively.
  • Gambling interventions should include regulations of availability and access to gambling.

Research

• • Further studies examining the TCM and collective displacement with longitudinal data is needed.
  • There is a need for more research to better understand the determinants of population averages and the dynamics of the interactions between the majority and the so-called ‘deviants’ in a population in various health areas.