Testing the acceptability and feasibility of the lower-risk gambling guidelines in Finland

Background: The lower risk gambling guidelines (LRGG) represent an evidence-based collaborative effort to provide clear advice to people on the limits of safe gambling consumption. The guidelines are as follows: 1) Gamble no more than 1% of household income per month; and 2) Gamble no more than 4 days per month; and 3) Avoid regularly gambling at more than 2 types of games. Methods: In an online survey study (N = 778), we evaluated the feasibility and acceptability of the LRGG among different subpopulations in Finland. Results: We found that the guidelines were generally evaluated positively as understandable, sensible, clear, and "just right" in terms of their content. There were some notable differences between subpopulations: Individuals who were at risk of gambling problems evaluated the LRGG more negatively than others, while professionals working in the field of gambling prevention were the most optimistic about the guidelines. Thus, increased level of potentially harmful gambling engagement was linked with a somewhat more pessimistic attitude towards the guidelines. On the other hand, those who had not gambled in the past year viewed the guidelines as too permissive compared with those who had gambled, or those working in gambling prevention. Discussion: Overall, our results show clear differences of opinion between the various subpopulations, which appear to be associated with the individuals' level and nature of gambling experience. We conclude that the LRGG can likely be adopted into wider use in Finland.