The findings were published as part of the launch of OpenOverGokken, a national information and support platform designed to address gambling-related harm and reduce stigma around seeking help.

Social acceptance linked to participation risk

The study surveyed 1,000 Dutch adults and found that 24% believe gambling is regarded as normal behaviour among friends or family members. The perception was notably stronger among men, where 32% reported this view, compared with 16% of women.

The regulator warned that such normalisation may encourage individuals to gamble more frequently or view betting as a routine social activity rather than a risk-based financial behaviour.

Additional data showed that 43% of respondents would be less inclined to gamble if people around them did not do so. Meanwhile, 22% reported having regular gamblers within their immediate social environment.

Conversations about gambling were also found to focus predominantly on winnings and success stories. Approximately 20% of respondents said they frequently hear gambling described as a quick and convenient way to make money.

Limited recognition of gambling harm

Despite growing participation, awareness of gambling-related risks remains mixed. Three-quarters of respondents attributed gambling problems primarily to poor personal decision-making. Only 11% explicitly acknowledged broader consequences such as impacts on employment, education, relationships or sleep.

At the same time, 76% agreed that gambling harm is not always easy to recognise, suggesting that problematic behaviour may go unnoticed within social groups.

The research also highlighted persistent stigma around discussing gambling addiction. Nearly 30% of respondents said they would hesitate to seek help if they developed a gambling problem, while 34% would find it difficult to confront someone about their behaviour.

Tackling stigma through public awareness

KSA Chairman Michel Groothuizen said the findings underline the importance of early intervention and public education.

OpenOverGokken, introduced in late 2025, serves as a successor to previous support initiatives and aims to provide independent guidance, practical advice and access to professional assistance. The platform seeks to make reliable information more accessible while addressing the cultural reluctance to discuss gambling-related harm openly.

According to the regulator, gambling problems often develop gradually and remain hidden for extended periods, particularly in environments where betting is widely accepted. By challenging the perception of gambling as routine or harmless, the authority hopes to encourage earlier recognition of risk behaviours and reduce barriers to seeking support.

Sources: IGB