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The Conversation
The Conversation
Jamie Torrance, Lecturer and Researcher in Psychology, Swansea University

Why people are watching livestreams of influencers gambling – and how it could be fuelling addiction

KICK
Top streamers are paid by gambling operators to broadcast themselves betting, often with company money rather than their own. Beto Chagas/Shutterstock

Every night, millions of people across the world tune in to watch influencers spin slot machines, chase jackpots and ride emotional rollercoasters of wins and losses. Online viewers erupt with cheers, emojis and pleas for “one more spin”.

But behind the flashy graphics and charismatic streamers, lies a complex web of psychological triggers, parasocial relationships where fans feel like friends with creators who don’t know they exist, and normalised risk-taking.

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