Gambling has traditionally been seen as a male-dominated activity in locations due, to societal norms and stereotypes. Marketing campaigns have often portrayed gambling as a pursuit dominated by men using imagery, themes, and endorsements from celebrities. However, the landscape of the gambling industry is changing significantly with women now engaging in gambling.
A recent survey by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) focused on women’s gambling experiences reveals that online gambling amongst women over 35 has increased in popularity. The survey also shows that women who have gambling accounts tend to play for longer and spend more compared to men. Despite the stigma attached to female gamblers, efforts have been made by the industry to create a more inclusive and inviting environment for women, in online gambling.
Accessibility and Convenience of Online Gambling
While traditional online casinos remain popular in the UK, there has been a notable increase in the use of cryptocurrencies as a payment option thanks to their acceptance at casinos that aren’t part of the Gamstop self-exclusion programme. These sites accept crypto as they are based outwith the UK (it’s currently difficult for UK-based casinos to do so), and offer users fast and anonymous transactions. However, it’s best to consult expert rankings before signing up non-Gamstop casinos, as licencing in other regions is sometimes not as strict as in the UK, so standards aren’t always as good.
The trend of using crypto has been particularly evident among women, with at least 10% of female gamblers now opting for crypto casinos. The increased accessibility and convenience of online gambling platforms, whether using fiat or cryptocurrencies, have made online gambling significantly appealing to women.
A key factor driving women’s embrace of online gambling is the anonymity and privacy it provides. Women tend to face more social stigma for gambling in traditional venues, so the ability to gamble online is seen as a major benefit. The use of cryptocurrencies adds an extra level of privacy and security.
Mobile gambling apps have been particularly beneficial in making online casinos more accessible. Around 43% of women in the UK used smartphones in 2019, allowing women to play on the go or during their spare time. While anonymity and accessibility of online gambling appeals to more women, the UKGC notes that at least 0.2% of female gamblers are more likely to experience harm to mental health and wellbeing, with 4% of women opting for self-exclusion.
Game Preferences and Motivations
Women’s gambling preferences and motivations also challenge the stereotypical norms of gambling being a male-dominated pursuit. The most popular online gambling activities for women include scratchcards, bingo, and lotteries. However, younger women are fond of gambling with friends in private, preferring slot machines at physical gambling venues and arcades. They often prefer the social aspect of casino gaming, seeing it as a way to socialise with friends, relax, or cope with stress and anxiety.
Casino gaming can be competitive for both men and women, but the motivations and preferences differ between genders. While men tend to focus on winning big and engaging in more complex games like blackjack and sports betting, women are more likely to play longer sessions and at lower stakes. This indicates that women’s focus is on staying profitable over time rather than pursuing a single big win.
Breaking Down Stereotypes
The rise of online gambling has made it so much easier for women to participate in the online casino industry. This has led to a greater number of women engaging in online betting, further disrupting the stereotype that gambling is a male-dominated activity. This increased representation and inclusivity are vital steps in breaking down the gender stereotypes of women’s experiences with gambling.
Importantly, women’s growing presence in the gambling industry is disrupting the long-held perception of gambling as a male-dominated activity only. Professional female poker players like Kristen Bicknell and Vanessa Selbst have achieved significant wins and accolades, demonstrating that women can excel in this field based on their strategy and expertise. Additionally, women in the industry are at the forefront of promoting responsible gambling practices, further challenging the stereotype of gambling as a reckless and frivolous pursuit.
Additionally, women in the gambling industry are also at the forefront of promoting responsible gambling practices, which is essential for ensuring the health and well-being of all gamblers. Women like Roxy Roxborough, the first female bookmaker in Nevada, and Kate Rooney, a sports analyst, have broken into male-dominated roles in the gambling industry with much success.