Even in the United States, where Congress in 2006 pulled the rug out from online betting in general and online poker in particular with the Unlawful Internet Gaming Enforcement Act, evidence shows that many legislators are rethinking the restrictions.

The heat is coming from constituents who have been gamers or want to enjoy the experience of participating in international competition from the comfort of their own laptop. Betting opportunities span the world of sports and games, from casino games and bingo to racing, boxing and wrestling, horse racing, football, track and field, soccer, and much more.

It is this ability to share in the thrill of betting from the privacy of their own home and out of the public eye that has won over so many new gaming converts and led to the explosion of the industry. Betting online means an individual can create their own virtual reality as they pick and choose how they want to gamble their money. It allows them the freedom to participate anywhere at any time via cell phone apps.

Online gambling easily has supplanted the smoke-filled barroom or betting parlors where the gamer may feel peer pressure to place a bet larger than they had intended or on a player they did not choose. Instead, privacy allows them the freedom to start and stop at will, do research, and explore unfamiliar competitions they may enjoy.

Psychologists have long studied the lure of gambling and recently have focused on the reasons for the growth in online betting. According to experts, gambling produces a feeling of power in the individual participant. In online gambling, the gamer also can create a virtual world in which they are strong and brave, willing to take chances. Instincts sharpen as the player does psychological battle against an imaginary enemy, the dealer.

Research has shown that while participating in online gambling, individuals experienced an intensified feeling of freedom as luck turns their way. This is why a dependency on online gaming can lead to isolation and a disassociation with the real world. Playing at casinos or in bingo parlors becomes less satisfying.

National leaders point to this tendency when they defend proposals to limit or eliminate Internet gambling. However, others see that these downsides can readily be dealt with by providing schooling on how to gamble responsibly and what signs to look for that may indicate a growing dependence on online gaming.

Europe already has recognized that attempts to legislate against online gambling are a losing bet. The European Union has made such participation the legal right of every adult. Gamblers are cautioned, though to take measures that will make their experience a more positive one.

One very important thing to consider: Before you bet online pick the right bookmaker. Since you are putting your money on a bet, you also want to be sure that the transaction will be done responsibly as well as legally. Certainty is key, hence choosing the right bookmaker is crucial in enjoying the betting process from start to finish.

There are a number of things you can look for when shopping for a bookmaker. For example, check the online comments from customers to see if the sports bookie has gained a positive reputation for being trustworthy by providing live chat customer service and a selection of payment options. Is the site able to accept your bet quickly and easily? Does it service the market in which you are interested?

Bonuses also are a major consideration. Many bookmakers will offer matching bet amounts or free bets for first-time players. Also, be sure check the odds they are offering to be sure you are getting the best deal available.