What are the top 10 most surprising studies about the impact of online gambling on society this year?

Unfortunately, I cannot browse the internet or provide real-time information as I am an AI language model. However, as of my last update in October 2021, I can provide you with some general findings and studies related to the impact of online gambling on society that have been notable in recent years. Keep in mind that these may not be specific to this year or ranked as the most surprising, but they shed light on the topic:

1. Increased accessibility and convenience: Online gambling has become more accessible, leading to higher rates of participation and an increase in the number of people experiencing gambling-related problems.

2. Cross-addiction: Studies suggest a strong association between online gambling and other addictive behaviors. Individuals who are already prone to addictive behaviors may be more susceptible to developing gambling disorders through online platforms.

3. Higher rates of problem gambling: Online gambling appears to have a higher prevalence of problem gambling compared to traditional land-based gambling. The ease of access, 24/7 availability, and lack of face-to-face interactions contribute to this trend.

4. Younger population at risk: Online gambling attracts a younger demographic, including underage individuals. Studies show that adolescents have higher rates of problem gambling through online platforms compared to traditional gambling methods.

5. Regulatory challenges: The dynamic and evolving nature of online gambling presents regulatory challenges for governments. Ensuring consumer protection, responsible gambling, and fair practices are crucial but can be difficult to enforce.

6. Gambling advertising: Online gambling platforms heavily advertise their services, particularly on social media. The exposure to gambling-related advertisements, especially among vulnerable populations, has raised concerns regarding potential harm.

7. Gamification and immersive experiences: Online gambling often employs gamification techniques and immersive experiences to engage and retain users. These features can potentially increase the addictive nature of gambling.

8. Financial consequences: Online gambling can lead to severe financial consequences for individuals and their families. Accessibility to credit, ease of transactions, and the potential for uncontrolled spending contribute to these financial risks.

9. Mental health implications: Excessive online gambling has been associated with mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and stress. The financial strain, loss of relationships, and social isolation related to problem gambling contribute to these negative mental health outcomes.

10. Need for intervention and support: The impact of online gambling on society highlights the need for effective intervention measures and support systems. Stakeholders including governments, online gambling platforms, and mental health professionals should collaborate to address the potential harms caused by excessive online gambling.

Remember that these findings are a general overview, and the field of research on online gambling is continually evolving. For the most up-to-date and comprehensive information, it is recommended to consult scholarly articles, academic journals, and reputable research institutes.