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Bellringer ME, Janicot S, Ikeda T. Changes in some health and lifestyle behaviours are significantly associated with changes in gambling behaviours: Findings from a longitudinal New Zealand population study. Addict Behav 2024; 149:107886. [PMID: 37832399 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2023.107886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
Although a large number of studies have investigated associations between risky gambling behaviours and health, lifestyle and social factors, research has not focused on changes in these factors and associations with changes in gambling risk level. This study utilised existing data from the four waves of the longitudinal New Zealand National Gambling Study to examine associations between changes in substance use, mental and physical health, and quality of life and deprivation with changes in gambling risk level over time. A Markov chain transition model was used to perform these analyses using data from participants who had completed all four waves (11,080 data transitions). Although changes in various covariates were associated with changes in all gambling risk levels, the highest number of significant factors was for transitioning into risky gambling from non-problematic gambling, including development, or continuation, of several negative health and lifestyle factors that may possibly be alleviated by transitioning out of risky gambling. These findings highlight the importance of screening for gambling behaviours when assisting people with substance use, health issues, or social situations or conditions in order to provide appropriate and effective social, health and treatment supports for people whose gambling behaviour increases over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria E Bellringer
- Gambling and Addictions Research Centre, Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland 1142, New Zealand.
| | - Stéphane Janicot
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Takayoshi Ikeda
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
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2
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Gavriel-Fried B, Loewenthal A, Vana N. Problem gambling severity in a nationally representative sample of the Israeli population: the moderating role of ethnonational affiliation. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1233301. [PMID: 37799154 PMCID: PMC10548459 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1233301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Gambling is a public health concern. Problem gambling is related to a range of psycho-social risk factors including ethnonational affiliation. Israel is an insightful case to probe problem gambling, given the socio-economic marginalization of Israeli Arabs, the continued exposure of Israelis to stress and the conservative Israeli gambling market. This study aimed to estimate problem gambling severity in Israeli society, characterize the sociodemographic, environmental, mental health, and gambling-related risk factors associated with problem gambling severity, and examine the role of ethnonational affiliation (Israeli Jewish/Arab) as a moderating factor in the associations between these risk factors and problem gambling severity. Methods A cross-sectional study based on a representative sample of 3,244 Israelis was conducted in 2022, of whom 1,626 had gambled in the previous year. Measurements included Problem Gambling Severity Index, Gambling Behaviors, Perceived Neighborhood Cohesion, Stress, the Patient Health Questionnaire-4, and sociodemographic variables. Results Low-risk, moderate-risk and problem gambling were reported by 16.7% of the total sample. The main risk factors for problem gambling were being an Israeli Arab, traditional, residing in a low socio-economic cluster, reporting anxiety symptoms, and higher gambling behaviors, specifically in legal/illegal online gambling. Ethnonational affiliation (Israeli Jewish/Arab) moderated the associations between gambling, illegal online gambling, and problem gambling severity. Higher neighborhood cohesion emerged as a risk factor for problem gambling solely for Israeli Arabs. Discussion As an excluded minority, Israeli Arabs may turn to gambling as a method to access the core republican community, thus, exposing themselves to a higher risk of developing problem gambling.
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Gabellini E, Lucchini F, Gattoni ME. Prevalence of Problem Gambling: A Meta-analysis of Recent Empirical Research (2016-2022). J Gambl Stud 2023; 39:1027-1057. [PMID: 36586057 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-022-10180-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Gambling is widely considered a socially acceptable form of recreation. However, for a small minority of individuals, it can become both addictive and problematic with severe adverse consequences. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to provide an overview of prevalence studies published between 2016 and the first quarter of 2022 and an updated estimate of problem gambling in the general adult population. A systematic review and a meta-analysis were carried out using academic databases, Internet, and governmental websites. Following this search and utilizing exclusion criteria, 23 studies on adult gambling prevalence were identified, distinguishing between moderate risk/at risk gambling and problem/pathological gambling. This study found a prevalence of moderate risk/at risk gambling to be 2.43% and of problem/pathological gambling to be 1.29% in the adult population. As difficult as it may be to compare studies due to different methodological procedures, cutoffs, and time frames, the present meta-analysis highlights the variations of prevalence across different countries, giving due consideration to the differences between levels of risk and severity. This work intends to provide a starting point for policymakers and academics to fill the gaps on gambling research-more specifically in some countries where the lack of research in this field is evident-and to study the effectiveness of policies implemented to mitigate gambling harm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eliana Gabellini
- Specific Prevention Unit, Agency for Health Protection of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Fabio Lucchini
- Specific Prevention Unit, Agency for Health Protection of Milan, Milan, Italy.
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Auer M, Griffiths MD. Using artificial intelligence algorithms to predict self-reported problem gambling with account-based player data in an online casino setting. J Gambl Stud 2023; 39:1273-1294. [PMID: 35852779 PMCID: PMC10397135 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-022-10139-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
In recent years researchers have emphasized the importance of artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms as a tool to detect problem gambling online. AI algorithms require a training dataset to learn the patterns of a prespecified group. Problem gambling screens are one method for the collection of the necessary input data to train AI algorithms. The present study's main aim was to identify the most significant behavioral patterns which predict self-reported problem gambling. In order to fulfil the aim, the study analyzed data from a sample of real-world online casino players and matched their self-report (subjective) responses concerning problem gambling with the participants' actual (objective) gambling behavior. More specifically, the authors were given access to the raw data of 1,287 players from a European online gambling casino who answered questions on the Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI) between September 2021 and February 2022. Random forest and gradient boost machine algorithms were trained to predict self-reported problem gambling based on the independent variables (e.g., wagering, depositing, gambling frequency). The random forest model predicted self-reported problem gambling better than gradient boost. Moreover, problem gamblers showed a distinct pattern with respect to their gambling based on the player tracking data. More specifically, problem gamblers lost more money per gambling day, lost more money per gambling session, and deposited money more frequently per gambling session. Problem gamblers also tended to deplete their gambling accounts more frequently compared to non-problem gamblers. A subgroup of problem gamblers identified as being at greater harm (based on their response to PGSI items) showed even higher values with respect to the aforementioned gambling behaviors. The study showed that self-reported problem gambling can be predicted by AI algorithms with high accuracy based on player tracking data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Auer
- neccton GmbH, Davidgasse 5, 7052 Muellendorf, Austria
| | - Mark D. Griffiths
- International Gaming Research Unit, Psychology Department, Nottingham Trent University, 50 Shakespeare Street, NG1 4FQ Nottingham, UK
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5
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Risk Factors for Gambling Disorder: A Systematic Review. J Gambl Stud 2023; 39:483-511. [PMID: 36884150 PMCID: PMC9994414 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-023-10195-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/05/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
Abstract
Gambling disorder is a common and problematic behavioral disorder associated with depression, substance abuse, domestic violence, bankruptcy, and high suicide rates. In the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), pathological gambling was renamed "gambling disorder" and moved to the Substance-Related and Addiction Disorders chapter to acknowledge that research suggests that pathological gambling and alcohol and drug addiction are related. Therefore, this paper provides a systematic review of risk factors for gambling disorder. Systematic searches of EBSCO, PubMed, and Web of Science identified 33 records that met study inclusion criteria. A revised study acknowledges as risk factors for developing/maintaining a gambling disorder being a single young male, or married for less than 5 years, living alone, having a poor education, and struggling financially.
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Brodeur M, Roberge P, Cotton JC, Monson E, Morvannou A, Poitras ME, Lacasse A, Jutras-Aswad D, Couturier Y, Loignon C, Audette-Chapdelaine S, Auger AM, Bertrand K, Dorceus S, Simon O, Hudon C. Experience of LGBTQIA2S+ populations with gambling during the COVID-19 pandemic: protocol for a mixed-methods study. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e066231. [PMID: 36754562 PMCID: PMC9922879 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-066231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Research undertaken since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic has provided us information about the impact of the pandemic on the gambling habits of the general population. However, very little is known about certain subgroups at increased risk of developing gambling disorder, such as the LGBTQIA2S+ population. The purpose of this study is to describe the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on gambling behaviours among LGBTQIA2S+ individuals. In addition, we want to understand the experiences of the LGBTQIA2S+ population with gambling disorder and identify interventions that LGBTQIA2S+ people have found to be effective in addressing problem gambling during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This study has a sequential explanatory mixed-method design in two phases over 2 years. The first phase is a correlational study. We will conduct a cross-sectional survey using a stratified random sampling among Canadian residents who are 18 years of age or older, self-identify as sexually and gender-diverse (ie, LGBTQIA2S+) and have gambled at least once in the previous 12 months. This survey will be administered online via a web panel (n=1500). The second phase is a qualitative study. Semistructured interviews will be conducted with LGBTQIA2S+ people with problematic gambling (n=30). ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This research project has been ethically and scientifically approved by the Research Ethics Committee and by the CIUSSS de l'Estrie-CHUS scientific evaluation committee on 3 March 2022 (reference number: 2022-4633-LGBTQ-JHA). Electronic and/or written informed consent, depending on the data collection format (online survey and online or in-person interviews), will be obtained from each participant. A copy of the consent form and contact information will be delivered to each participant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magaly Brodeur
- Department of Family Medecine and Emergency Medecine, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Pasquale Roberge
- Department of Family Medecine and Emergency Medecine, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Julie-Christine Cotton
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Eva Monson
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Adele Morvannou
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Marie-Eve Poitras
- Department of Family Medecine and Emergency Medecine, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Anaïs Lacasse
- Department of Health Sciences, Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue, Rouyn-Noranda, Quebec, Canada
| | - Didier Jutras-Aswad
- Department of Psychiatry and Addiction, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Yves Couturier
- School of Social Work, Universite de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Christine Loignon
- Department of Family Medecine and Emergency Medecine, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Sophie Audette-Chapdelaine
- Department of Family Medecine and Emergency Medecine, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Anne-Marie Auger
- Department of Family Medecine and Emergency Medecine, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Karine Bertrand
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Sabruna Dorceus
- Department of Career Counseling, Universite de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Olivier Simon
- Department of Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Vaud, Switzerland
| | - Catherine Hudon
- Department of Family Medecine and Emergency Medecine, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
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Chóliz M. Crisis, What Crisis? The Effect of Economic Crises on Spending on Online and Offline Gambling in Spain: Implications for Preventing Gambling Disorder. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:2909. [PMID: 36833606 PMCID: PMC9957131 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20042909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
(1) Background: In the period between 2008 and 2020, the world experienced two global economic crises that affected people's way of life and well-being: the financial crisis of 2008 and that precipitated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the crises' radically different causes, their consequences for economic activity have been equally dramatic; (2) Methods: This article analyzes the consequences of both crises on gambling spending in Spain and compares traditional (offline) games with more recent online offerings. The data were collected from databases maintained by the Spanish government and gambling companies; (3) Results: The paper offers two main conclusions. The first is that, while traditional (offline) gambling has been significantly affected by economic crises, online gambling has exhibited consistent growth since its legalization. The second is that the measures implemented to resolve the two economic crises differed significantly and thus had different impacts on spending on the various types of gambling; (4) Conclusions: The key conclusion is that purchasing power (measured in terms of GDP) can only explain spending on less addictive gambling games, such as lotteries. However, the availability and accessibility of games are both directly related to spending on games of all types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariano Chóliz
- Gambling and Technological Addictions Research Unit, Psychology School, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
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8
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Forsström D, Lindner P, Månsson KNT, Ojala O, Hedman-Lagerlöf M, El Alaoui S, Rozental A, Lundin J, Jangard S, Shahnavaz S, Sörman K, Lundgren T, Jayaram-Lindström N. Isolation and worry in relation to gambling and onset of gambling among psychiatry patients during the COVID-19 pandemic: A mediation study. Front Psychol 2022; 13:1045709. [PMID: 36619111 PMCID: PMC9813864 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.1045709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
When the COVID-19 pandemic started spreading globally, there was a fear that addictive behaviors would increase due to changes in everyday life caused by restrictions due to COVID-19. Studies were carried out to explore if this was true for gambling, typically revealing no overall increase in gambling behavior, although individuals who had previous experience with gambling problems were more likely to increase gambling during the pandemic. However, these studies only included individuals with previous gambling problems. It remains unknown whether other vulnerable groups, such as individuals with common mental disorders increased their gambling. This study aimed to explore the level of gambling problems among individuals with a history of mental disorders, namely, (i) pre-pandemic gamblers and (ii) pandemic-onset gamblers. Furthermore, we explored if worry and isolation mediate gambling and problem gambling. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and a structural equation model to investigate mediation. The results showed a high prevalence of at-risk and problem gambling in both groups. The pre-pandemic gamblers had a high level of at-risk and problem gambling. Furthermore, the individuals that started to gamble during the pandemic had an even higher degree of at-risk and problem gambling. The mediation showed that the onset of gambling was linked with the worry of COVID-infection and that worry predicted the level of gambling problems. This study highlights that vulnerability factors, isolation, and worry can be triggers for individuals with common mental disorders to engage in gambling as well as the importance of screening this population for gambling problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Forsström
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Psychiatry Research, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm Health Care Services, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Psychology, Uppsala University, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Philip Lindner
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Psychiatry Research, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm Health Care Services, Stockholm, Sweden
- Centre for Dependency Disorders, Stockholm Health Care Services, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Olivia Ojala
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Psychiatry Research, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm Health Care Services, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Maria Hedman-Lagerlöf
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Psychiatry Research, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm Health Care Services, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Samir El Alaoui
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Psychiatry Research, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm Health Care Services, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Alexander Rozental
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Psychiatry Research, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm Health Care Services, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Psychology, Uppsala University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Johan Lundin
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Psychiatry Research, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm Health Care Services, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Simon Jangard
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Psychiatry Research, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm Health Care Services, Stockholm, Sweden
- Division of Psychology, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Shervin Shahnavaz
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Psychiatry Research, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm Health Care Services, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Karolina Sörman
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Psychiatry Research, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm Health Care Services, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Tobias Lundgren
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Psychiatry Research, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm Health Care Services, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Nitya Jayaram-Lindström
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Psychiatry Research, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm Health Care Services, Stockholm, Sweden
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Renard M, Audette-Chapdelaine S, Savard AC, Kairouz S, Brodeur M. Gamblers' Perceptions of the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Their Gambling Behaviours: Analysis of Free-Text Responses Collected through a Cross-Sectional Online Survey. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:16603. [PMID: 36554483 PMCID: PMC9778834 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192416603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought drastic changes to the lives of a substantial portion of the world's population. Many stakeholders have expressed concern about the impact of the pandemic on gambling practices, which have historically increased during times of crisis. The purpose of this study was to provide a snapshot of the impact of the pandemic on gambling practices, focusing on the lived experiences of people who gamble. An online cross-sectional survey was conducted between 16 February and 15 March 2021. An open-ended question allowed the participants to describe in their own words the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on their gambling practices. A qualitative analysis was conducted based on 724 responses to this question. Among the participants, 57% were problem gamblers, according to their Problem Gambling Severity Index score. Three themes were identified: (1) changes in gambling practices perceived by the respondents during the pandemic, (2) the impacts of these changes, and (3) the factors that influenced the changes in their gambling practices. A meaningful proportion of the sample of gamblers felt that their gambling practices had increased during the pandemic. Many of them did not report the deleterious effects of this increase, whereas others were devastated. Thus, variations in gambling practices during the pandemic must be interpreted with caution, as they may reflect a variety of realities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianne Renard
- Department of Psychology, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montreal, QC H2X 3P2, Canada
| | - Sophie Audette-Chapdelaine
- Department of Family Medicine and Emergency Medicine, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1K 2R1, Canada
| | - Annie-Claude Savard
- School of Social Work and Criminology, Université Laval, Quebec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Sylvia Kairouz
- Department of Sociology and Anthropology, Concordia University, Montreal, QC H3G 1M8, Canada
| | - Magaly Brodeur
- Department of Family Medicine and Emergency Medicine, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1K 2R1, Canada
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10
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Quinn A, Grant JE, Chamberlain SR. COVID-19 and resultant restrictions on gambling behaviour. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 143:104932. [PMID: 36341942 PMCID: PMC9617674 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Since the onset of COVID-19, studies suggest a significant increase in online gambling, potentially facilitated by increased time at home, social isolation and boredom. This study aimed to address what is known about the impact of the pandemic on gambling behaviour by conducting a mapping review. A systematic literature search was conducted using four online databases. Additional studies were identified using reference lists. Relevant studies were quality scored and their findings synthesised in terms of overall changes at the population level and potentially vulnerable groups. The weight of evidence from 35 relevant reports across 12 countries indicated reductions of gambling during the pandemic at the level of the general population. However, marked increases in gambling amongst vulnerable sub-populations including amongst young adults and people with pre-existing at-risk gambling were also noted. The impact of COVID-19 on gambling is highly contingent on context. If policy makers examine only population level data, this could overlook profound negative effects identified in those with at-risk gambling, gambling disorder, and amongst young adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Quinn
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, UK,Correspondence to: Academic Centre, College Keep, 4-12 Terminus Terrace, Southampton, Hampshire, SO14 3DT, UK
| | - Jon E. Grant
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Chicago, USA
| | - Samuel R. Chamberlain
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, UK,Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
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11
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Carragher N, Long J, Radu I, King DL, Billieux J, Rumpf HJ, Assanangkornchai S, Saunders JB, Higuchi S. Monitoring the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on problematic gambling and gaming: an international key informant survey. INTERNATIONAL GAMBLING STUDIES 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/14459795.2022.2114526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Natacha Carragher
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jiang Long
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ilinca Radu
- Global Health Section, Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Daniel L. King
- College of Education, Psychology and Social Work, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Joël Billieux
- Institute of Psychology, University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
- Centre for Excessive Gambling, Addiction Medicine, Lausanne University Hospitals (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Hans-Jürgen Rumpf
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Sawitri Assanangkornchai
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla, Thailand
| | - John B. Saunders
- National Centre for Youth Substance Use Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Susumu Higuchi
- National Hospital Organization Kurihama Medical and Addiction Center, Yokosuka, Japan
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12
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Gartner C, Bickl A, Härtl S, Loy JK, Häffner L. Differences in problem and pathological gambling: A narrative review considering sex and gender. J Behav Addict 2022; 11:267-289. [PMID: 35499928 PMCID: PMC9295224 DOI: 10.1556/2006.2022.00019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and aim A wide range of studies indicates that men and women with Problem (PrG) and Pathological Gambling (PG) differ in several clinical and sociodemographic characteristics. However, evidence for sex differences, such as the telescoping effect, is contradictory, and it is still unclear whether sex differences observed in offline gambling can also be found for online gambling. Furthermore, reviews have so far focused on binary sex differences but neglect gender aspects. In this study, an updated literature survey of sex- and gender-related differences in PrG and PG was conducted. Methods We searched PsyInfo, Medline/Pubmed, and the Web of Science databases from 2005 to 2020 for studies investigating sex and gender differences in gambling. A total of 126 papers were included in the literature survey. Results We are presenting our findings according to the categories 'prevalence' (offline, online, LGBTQI*), 'sociodemographic factors', 'preferred gambling type', 'gambling motives', 'severity', 'progression of gambling problems', 'use of professional help/motivation for treatment', 'comorbidity', 'trauma', 'violence and criminality/delinquency'. The studies indicate that, despite some robust sex differences (e.g., concerning prevalence rates), results for most areas were mixed or suggest no sex differences (e.g., violence, gambling motives). Discussion and conclusion To date, there is a lack of studies assessing gender, and not only sex, warranting further research in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corinna Gartner
- BAS Bayerische Akademie für Sucht- und Gesundheitsfragen (Unternehmergesellschaft haftungsbeschränkt), LSG Landesstelle Glücksspielsucht in Bayern, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Sabine Härtl
- BAS Bayerische Akademie für Sucht- und Gesundheitsfragen (Unternehmergesellschaft haftungsbeschränkt), LSG Landesstelle Glücksspielsucht in Bayern, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Laura Häffner
- BAS Bayerische Akademie für Sucht- und Gesundheitsfragen (Unternehmergesellschaft haftungsbeschränkt), LSG Landesstelle Glücksspielsucht in Bayern, Munich, Germany
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13
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Noel JK, Rosenthal SR, Sammartino CJ. Correlates of gambling and gambling problems among Rhode Island young adults: a cross-sectional study. J Public Health (Oxf) 2022:6535707. [PMID: 35211749 DOI: 10.1093/pubmed/fdac023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Numerous states in the USA have legalized sports betting due to recent legal decisions by the US Supreme Court. Here, sociodemographic correlates of current gambling and specific gambling activities associated with symptoms of gambling problems were identified. METHODS Cross-sectional data were obtained from the 2020 Rhode Island Young Adult Survey (RIYAS). RIYAS participants (n = 540) were a convenience sample of 18 to 25 year olds who lived in Rhode Island for at least part of 2020. Data were collected from May to October 2020. Four gambling activities were assessed (i.e. sports betting; betting on races; gaming tables at a casino; poker machines at a casino). Logistic regression models assessed main effects. RESULTS 22.4% engaged in one or more gambling activities. 11.5% of participants had any gambling problems. Odds of gambling activities were higher among men; Black, Indigenous, People of Color; older young adults; and essential workers. Odds of gambling problems were 2.4 times higher among participants who engaged with sports betting. CONCLUSIONS Gambling activities are common among several population subgroups, and participation in sports betting may be a risk factor for the development of problem gambling. Comprehensive prevention policies are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan K Noel
- Department of Health Science, College of Health & Wellness, Johnson & Wales University, Providence, RI 02903, USA
| | - Samantha R Rosenthal
- Department of Health Science, College of Health & Wellness, Johnson & Wales University, Providence, RI 02903, USA.,Department of Epidemiology, Brown School of Public Health, Providence, RI 02903, USA
| | - Cara J Sammartino
- Department of Health Science, College of Health & Wellness, Johnson & Wales University, Providence, RI 02903, USA
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14
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Fluharty M, Paul E, Fancourt D. Predictors and patterns of gambling behaviour across the COVID-19 lockdown: Findings from a UK cohort study. J Affect Disord 2022; 298:1-8. [PMID: 34744027 PMCID: PMC8555112 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2021.10.117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the economy has raised concerns about negative coping behaviours to offset financial losses. We used a subset of a longitudinal study of UK adults (N = 19,963) to examine a range of predictors of (i) gambling during the first strict lockdown, (ii) gambling more frequently during this strict lockdown compared to before lockdown, and (iii) continued increased frequency of gambling during the relaxation of restrictions. Results from logistic regressions indicated that amongst other factors, those with progressively lower levels of education, were stressed due to boredom, frequently drank alcohol, and had high risk-taking tendencies were more likely to gamble during strict lockdown. Individuals who were more likely to have increased their frequency of gambling during strict lockdown compared to before the lockdown were stressed by boredom, employed, frequently drank alcohol, and had depression and anxiety, whilst men and current smokers were less likely. As lockdown restrictions eased, individuals of ethnic minority backgrounds, who were current smokers, and with lower educational attainment were more likely to continue gambling more than usual. Findings contribute to knowledge of who is most at risk for increasing their gambling during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meg Fluharty
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, United States
| | - Elise Paul
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, United States
| | - Daisy Fancourt
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, United States.
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15
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Shaw CA, Hodgins DC, Williams RJ, Belanger YD, Christensen DR, el-Guebaly N, McGrath DS, Nicoll F, Smith GJ, Stevens RMG. Gambling in Canada During the COVID Lockdown: Prospective National Survey. J Gambl Stud 2022; 38:371-396. [PMID: 34545513 PMCID: PMC8451724 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-021-10073-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The current study investigated the impact of the COVID pandemic lockdown on gambling and problem gambling in Canada. The AGRI National Project's online panel participants (N = 3449) provided baseline gambling data 6 months prior to the pandemic. Re-surveying this sample during the lockdown provided an opportunity to make quantitative comparisons of the changes. Nearly one-third of gamblers reported ceasing gambling altogether during the lockdown. For the continuing gamblers, quantitative data indicated significant decreases in gambling frequency, time spent in gambling sessions, money spent, and the number of game types played. Qualitative perceptions of changes in gambling were examined and the accuracy of these reports were not closely aligned with actual changes in gambling. Gambling platform was the only gambling engagement metric where increases were found with ~ 17% of the gambling sample migrating to online gambling during the lockdown. Although problem gambling within the sample generally declined, consistent with previous literature, it was also found that gambling online-among other biopsychosocial factors-was a significant predictor for classification as a problem gambler during the lockdown. COVID-specific influences on health, employment, leisure time and social isolation were moderately associated with problem gambling scores but were not independent predictors of changes in gambling engagement during lockdown. Future studies are required to assess if the pandemic related changes in gambling evidenced in this study remain stable, or if engagement reverts to pre-pandemic levels when the pandemic response allows for the re-opening of land-based gambling venues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carrie A. Shaw
- Centre of Excellence in Responsible Gaming, University of Gibraltar, Europa Point Campus, Gibraltar, GX11 1AA Gibraltar ,University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Canada
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16
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Baenas I, Etxandi M, Codina E, Granero R, Fernández-Aranda F, Gómez-Peña M, Moragas L, Rivas S, Potenza MN, Håkansson A, Del Pino-Gutiérrez A, Mora-Maltas B, Valenciano-Mendoza E, Menchón JM, Jiménez-Murcia S. Does Confinement Affect Treatment Dropout Rates in Patients With Gambling Disorder? A Nine-Month Observational Study. Front Psychol 2022; 12:761802. [PMID: 34970193 PMCID: PMC8712884 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.761802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims: COVID-19 pandemic and confinement have represented a challenge for patients with gambling disorder (GD). Regarding treatment outcome, dropout may have been influenced by these adverse circumstances. The aims of this study were: (a) to analyze treatment dropout rates in patients with GD throughout two periods: during and after the lockdown and (b) to assess clinical features that could represent vulnerability factors for treatment dropout. Methods: The sample consisted of n=86 adults, mostly men (n=79, 91.9%) and with a mean age of 45years old (SD=16.85). Patients were diagnosed with GD according to DSM-5 criteria and were undergoing therapy at a Behavioral Addiction Unit when confinement started. Clinical data were collected through a semi-structured interview and protocolized psychometric assessment. A brief telephone survey related to COVID-19 concerns was also administered at the beginning of the lockdown. Dropout data were evaluated at two moments throughout a nine-month observational period (T1: during the lockdown, and T2: after the lockdown). Results: The risk of dropout during the complete observational period was R=32/86=0.372 (37.2%), the Incidence Density Rate (IDR) ratio T2/T1 being equal to 0.052/0.033=1.60 (p=0.252). Shorter treatment duration (p=0.007), lower anxiety (p=0.025), depressive symptoms (p=0.045) and lower use of adaptive coping strategies (p=0.046) characterized patients who abandoned treatment during the lockdown. Briefer duration of treatment (p=0.001) and higher employment concerns (p=0.044) were highlighted in the individuals who dropped out after the lockdown. Treatment duration was a predictor of dropout in both periods (p=0.005 and p<0.001, respectively). Conclusion: The present results suggest an impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on treatment dropout among patients with GD during and after the lockdown, being treatment duration a predictor of dropout. Assessing vulnerability features in GD may help clinicians identify high-risk individuals and enhance prevention and treatment approaches in future similar situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Baenas
- Department of Psychiatry, Bellvitge University Hospital-IDIBELL, Barcelona, Spain.,Ciber Fisiopatología Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERObn), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Mikel Etxandi
- Department of Psychiatry, Bellvitge University Hospital-IDIBELL, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ester Codina
- Department of Psychiatry, Bellvitge University Hospital-IDIBELL, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Roser Granero
- Ciber Fisiopatología Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERObn), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.,Department of Psychobiology and Methodology, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Fernando Fernández-Aranda
- Department of Psychiatry, Bellvitge University Hospital-IDIBELL, Barcelona, Spain.,Ciber Fisiopatología Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERObn), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.,Department of Clinical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Psychiatry and Mental Health Group, Neurosciences Programme, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mónica Gómez-Peña
- Department of Psychiatry, Bellvitge University Hospital-IDIBELL, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laura Moragas
- Department of Psychiatry, Bellvitge University Hospital-IDIBELL, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sandra Rivas
- Department of Psychiatry, Bellvitge University Hospital-IDIBELL, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marc N Potenza
- Department of Psychiatry and Child Study Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States.,Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling, Wethersfield, CT, United States.,Connecticut Mental Health Center, New Haven, CT, United States.,Department of Neuroscience, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Anders Håkansson
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden.,Region Skåne, Gambling Disorder Unit, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Amparo Del Pino-Gutiérrez
- Ciber Fisiopatología Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERObn), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.,Department of Public Health, Mental Health and Perinatal Nursing, School of Nursing, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Bernat Mora-Maltas
- Department of Psychiatry, Bellvitge University Hospital-IDIBELL, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - José M Menchón
- Department of Psychiatry, Bellvitge University Hospital-IDIBELL, Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Clinical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Psychiatry and Mental Health Group, Neurosciences Programme, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), Barcelona, Spain.,Ciber Salut Mental (CIBERSAM), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Susana Jiménez-Murcia
- Department of Psychiatry, Bellvitge University Hospital-IDIBELL, Barcelona, Spain.,Ciber Fisiopatología Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERObn), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.,Department of Clinical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Psychiatry and Mental Health Group, Neurosciences Programme, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), Barcelona, Spain
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17
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Brodeur M, Audette-Chapdelaine S, Savard AC, Kairouz S. Gambling and the COVID-19 pandemic: A scoping review. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2021; 111:110389. [PMID: 34146652 PMCID: PMC8643271 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2021.110389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2020] [Revised: 04/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The impact of COVID-19 on mental health is tremendous. Since the beginning of the pandemic, several actors have raised concerns about the impact of the pandemic on gambling. Many actors fear a switch to online gambling in the context of the closure of many land-based gambling activities due to the restrictions imposed by public health authorities, such as physical distancing and lockdowns. This switch is worrisome because online gambling is considered a high-risk game. In that context, we need to know more about the impacts of the pandemic on gambling. This scoping review aims to summarize the literature that addresses the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on gambling. To our knowledge, this is the first review to focus on this subject. METHODS An electronic literature search involving a strategy using keywords related to COVID-19 and gambling was conducted using MEDLINE, Academic Search Complete, CINAHL, PsychINFO, Social Works Abstract, and Socio Index databases on February 25th 2021. This search was combined with a manual search in Google Scholar. To be included, studies had to discuss gambling and COVID-19 as a primary theme, be written in English, and be published in a peer-reviewed journal. After collecting the information, we collated, summarized, and reported the results using narrative synthesis. RESULTS The search identified 181 articles. After the removal of duplicates and screening, 24 full-text articles were reviewed and included in this study: 14 original articles, 8 commentaries or editorials, and 2 protocols. Contrary to expectations, preliminary evidence suggested that gambling behavior often either decreased or stayed the same for most gamblers during the pandemic. However, for the minority who showed increased gambling behavior, there was frequently an association with problem gambling. CONCLUSION The available literature on COVID-19 and gambling is limited and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on gambling behavior and gambling problems is still unclear. Therefore, there is a need for more research on this topic, both qualitative and mixed methods studies, to better understand the impact of the pandemic on gambling. Considering the results, we need to be careful, particularly with problem gamblers and other subgroups of the population who seem to be more vulnerable to increased gambling habits during this pandemic period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magaly Brodeur
- Département de médecine de famille et de médecine d'urgence, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada.
| | - Sophie Audette-Chapdelaine
- Département de médecine de famille et de médecine d'urgence, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
| | - Annie-Claude Savard
- École de travail social et de criminologie, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, Canada
| | - Sylvia Kairouz
- Département de sociologie et d'anthropologie, Université Concordia, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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18
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Claesdotter-Knutsson E, Håkansson A. Changes in Self-Reported Web-Based Gambling Activity During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Cross-sectional Study. JMIR Serious Games 2021; 9:e30747. [PMID: 34730540 PMCID: PMC8568044 DOI: 10.2196/30747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The COVID‑19 pandemic has affected not only somatic health with over 3.7 million deaths worldwide, but also has had a huge impact on psychological health, creating what amounts to a mental health crisis. The negative effect of the pandemic on traditional addictions is well described and concerning, and the same has been seen for gambling. Objective This study explores self-reported web-based gambling behavior during the COVID‑19 pandemic in Sweden. We investigated overall changes, but also changes in specific web-based gambling types, and whether they are associated with certain risk factors or lifestyle changes. Methods Our study is based on an anonymous web-based survey of web panel participants in Sweden (N=1501) designed to study a range of behavioral changes during the COVID‑19 pandemic. Increases in gambling were analyzed using logistic regression models against sociodemographic data and psychological distress. Results The majority of the respondents who gambled reported no changes in their gambling habits during the COVID‑19 pandemic. We found significant associations with the problem gambling severity index (PGSI), the Kessler score (indicating psychological distress), employment status, changes in alcohol habits, and self-exclusion when looking at overall changes in gambling activity in the pandemic. In the subgroup that reported an increase in gambling activity, we found an association with both the PGSI and Kessler scores. The PGSI score was also an independent predictor for all specific web-based gambling (horses, sports, poker, and casino) whereas the Kessler score only had a significant impact on changes in casino gambling. In addition, male gender was an independent predictor for gambling on sports and casino gambling. Conclusions The majority of respondents who gambled reported no changes in their gambling activity during the COVID‑19 pandemic. The group that reported an increase in overall gambling activity during the COVID-19 pandemic represent a group with gambling problems and psychological distress. The group that reported increased sports and casino gambling were often male, and this group seemed to experience more psychological distress.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anders Håkansson
- Psychiatry, Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
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19
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Brodeur M, Audette-Chapdelaine S, Savard AC, Kairouz S. Gambling and the COVID-19 pandemic in the province of Quebec (Canada): protocol for a mixed-methods study. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e048785. [PMID: 34518259 PMCID: PMC8438576 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-048785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The COVID-19 pandemic has major collateral impacts on mental health. Gambling is among the major public health issues that seems to have been transformed by the pandemic. In the province of Quebec in Canada, gambling is an important leisure activity. About two out of three adults are in Quebec gamble. The objective of this study is to draw a portrait of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on gamblers and to learn more about their experiences during the pandemic in the province of Quebec. METHOD AND ANALYSIS This study has a sequential explanatory mixed-method design in two phases. The first phase is a cross-sectional online survey with Quebec residents who are 18 years of age or older and have gambled at least once in the previous 12 months. The second phase will be a qualitative study. Semistructured interviews will be conducted with gamblers, family members, addiction counsellors and state representatives selected through purposing sampling. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study is one of the first mixed-methods studies on the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on gambling. This study will generate new scientific knowledge on a worrisome public health issue, that is, gambling, and provide a better understanding of the experiences and gambling behaviours of gamblers during the pandemic. This study is funded by the Ministry of Health and Social Services of the Government of Quebec and was approved on 27 October 2020 by the Scientific and Research Ethics Committee of the CIUSSS de l'Estrie-CHUS. This is a 2-year study that will be completed in June 2022.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magaly Brodeur
- Département de médecine de famille et de médecine d'urgence, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Sophie Audette-Chapdelaine
- Département de médecine de famille et de médecine d'urgence, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Annie-Claude Savard
- École de travail social et de criminologie, Université Laval, Quebec, Quebec City, Canada
| | - Sylvia Kairouz
- Department of Sociology and Anthropology, Concordia University, Montreal, Québec, Canada
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20
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Georgiadou E, Müller A, Koopmann A, Leménager T, Hillemacher T, Kiefer F. Changes in gambling behavior during the COVID-19 lockdown in Germany. INTERNATIONAL GAMBLING STUDIES 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/14459795.2021.1956562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ekaterini Georgiadou
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Paracelsus Medical University Nuremberg, Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Astrid Müller
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Anne Koopmann
- Department of Addictive Behavior and Addiction Medicine, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim/Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
- Feuerlein Center on Translational Addiction Medicine (FCTS), University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Tagrid Leménager
- Department of Addictive Behavior and Addiction Medicine, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim/Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
- Feuerlein Center on Translational Addiction Medicine (FCTS), University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Thomas Hillemacher
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Paracelsus Medical University Nuremberg, Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Falk Kiefer
- Department of Addictive Behavior and Addiction Medicine, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim/Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
- Feuerlein Center on Translational Addiction Medicine (FCTS), University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
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21
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Penfold KL, Ogden J. Exploring the experience of Gamblers Anonymous meetings during COVID-19: a qualitative study. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2021; 41:8200-8213. [PMID: 34421284 PMCID: PMC8367765 DOI: 10.1007/s12144-021-02089-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Whilst much research has explored the possible causes and consequences of gambling, Gamblers Anonymous (GA) − one of the most accessed forms of support for gamblers - has been largely overlooked and, to date, only a few studies have explored how members experience this programme. Core to GA is the social interaction between members. From March 2020, however, the COVID-19 pandemic forced GA to move their meetings online. The present qualitative study therefore explored how GA members experienced these online meetings in the absence of actual face to face interactions with others. Individual telephone or video call interviews (n = 21) were carried out with members of GA in the UK and analysed using Thematic Analysis. The results described three main themes: (1) ‘practicalities of GA in lockdown’, which highlighted the practical benefits of online meetings such as more opportunity to attend different meetings, which in turn expanded participants’ perspectives and social networks; (2) ‘the importance of relationships in GA’, reflecting strong and enduring social networks that were created, maintained, and strengthened by feelings of solidarity; and (3) ‘therapeutic elements of the meetings’, such as psychological contract making which helped participants to stay abstinent. Transcending these themes was a tension between individual versus group identity with interviewees reporting a shift to focusing more on their own needs rather than those of the group. Overall, whilst still providing a lifeline during COVID-19 and offering some practical benefits, the online GA meetings were not able to completely replicate the value individuals gained from face to face meetings. This transition also resulted in disruptions both to group dynamics and to individual interactions within each group, ultimately resulting in participants behaving more individualistically and less collectively than in face-to-face meetings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katy L Penfold
- School of Psychology, University of Surrey, Guildford, GU2 7XH UK
| | - Jane Ogden
- School of Psychology, University of Surrey, Guildford, GU2 7XH UK
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22
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Xuereb S, Kim HS, Clark L, Wohl MJA. Substitution behaviors among people who gamble during COVID-19 precipitated casino closures. INTERNATIONAL GAMBLING STUDIES 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/14459795.2021.1903062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Silas Xuereb
- Department of Psychology, Carleton University, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Hyoun S. Kim
- Department of Psychology, Ryerson University, Toronto, Canada
| | - Luke Clark
- Centre for Gambling Research at UBC, Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
- Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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23
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Salerno L, Pallanti S. COVID-19 Related Distress in Gambling Disorder. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:620661. [PMID: 33732173 PMCID: PMC7959835 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.620661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has exerted a dramatic impact on everyday life globally. In this context, it has been reported that the lockdown and social distancing may have exerted an impact even on gambling behavior, not only by increasing gambling behavior in those affected by this disorder but even contributing to the occurrence of new cases. To explore such a possibility, we designed a cross-sectional web survey addressing a general population sample that lasted 3 weeks (March 23-April 20). Participants completed a survey including a demographic information section, a question regarding the presence of pathological gambling in the past and several questionnaires. These included the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), the Kellner's Symptom Questionnaire (SQ), and the version of The Yale Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale adapted for Pathological Gambling (PG-YBOCS) that investigated the presence of gambling behaviors in the last week. The final sample was composed by 254 subjects (112 males, 44.1%; 142 females, 55.9%). According to PG-YBOCS total score, pathological gambling has been found in 23.6% (n = 60) of the sample (53 males, 88.3%; 7 females, 11.7%), which is a high frequency compared to that reported by the existing literature. Among gamblers, 20.9% (n = 53) reported both past and current problem gambling (they have been defined as "chronic gamblers"), whereas 2.8% (n = 7) did not report to use gambling platforms in the past but only in the last week (defined as "new gamblers"). Data analysis showed a statistically significant difference between gamblers and people who do not gamble in age but not in education, and higher level of perceived stress, distress, and hostility in both chronic and new gamblers compared to those who did not report gambling behavior. A consistent proportion of business owners and unemployed individuals reported problem gambling during the lockdown period.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Stefano Pallanti
- INS, Istituto di Neuroscienze, Florence, Italy.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
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24
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Håkansson A. Impact of COVID-19 on Online Gambling - A General Population Survey During the Pandemic. Front Psychol 2020; 11:568543. [PMID: 33101137 PMCID: PMC7546777 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.568543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic may have severe impact on mental health, and concerns have been raised about potentially increased online behavior and possibly increased gambling problems, such as in sports bettors at risk of transfer to even riskier forms of gambling during sports lock-down. Given the need for objective data about gambling behavior during the pandemic, the present analysis, from a project assessing online gambling in Sweden, aimed to study past-30-day gambling patterns in online gamblers in Sweden. The study, carried out in May, 2020, during the pandemic and its restrictions on society, included past-year online gamblers (N = 997). Past-30-day gambling for several gambling types was lower compared to a previous study in online gamblers in the same setting, while online non-sports gambling remained at high levels. Those reporting sports betting even during a period with decreased sports betting occasions proved to have markedly higher gambling problems. COVID-19 may alter gambling behaviors, and online gamblers who maintain or initiate gambling types theoretically reduced by the crisis may represent a group at particular risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anders Håkansson
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
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25
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Abstract
: The COVID-19 pandemic has the potential to worsen mental health problems in the general population, including increasing engagement in addictive behaviors. Here, we describe observations suggesting that the current crisis and its sequelae may worsen problem gambling. The current pandemic may impact financial and psychological well-being due to social isolation during spatial distancing, and these stressors in conjunction with substantial changes in gambling markets (land-based, online) during the pandemic may significantly influence gambling behaviors. This situation calls for rapid research initiatives in this area and preventive and regulatory measures by multiple stakeholders.
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Zendle D. Beyond loot boxes: a variety of gambling-like practices in video games are linked to both problem gambling and disordered gaming. PeerJ 2020; 8:e9466. [PMID: 32742782 PMCID: PMC7367055 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.9466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
A variety of practices have recently emerged which relate to both video games and gambling. These range from opening loot boxes, to esports betting, real-money video gaming, token wagering, and social casino spending. It is unknown either how harmful or how widespread many of these activities are. A sample of 1,081 adults from the UK aged 18+ was therefore recruited. This sample was purposively recruited via quota sampling to represent the UK population in terms of sex, age, and ethnicity. Engagement in all forms of gaming-related practices were significantly associated with both problem gambling and disordered gaming. A total of 18.5% of the sample had engaged in these activities at least once in the new year. These results suggest a convergent ecosystem of practices that relate to both video games and gambling. Engagement in each of these activities is linked to problem gambling. However, it remains unclear whether engagement in these activities causes problem gambling.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Zendle
- Computer Science, University of York, York, United Kingdom
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Price A. Online Gambling in the Midst of COVID-19: A Nexus of Mental Health Concerns, Substance Use and Financial Stress. Int J Ment Health Addict 2020; 20:362-379. [PMID: 32837444 PMCID: PMC7357671 DOI: 10.1007/s11469-020-00366-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
This study examined the emerging impact of COVID-19 on gambling during the first 6 weeks of emergency measures in Ontario, Canada. A cross-sectional online survey of 2005 gamblers, including a sub-sample of 1081 online gamblers (age 18 years and older), was administered to assess risky gambling behaviours and motivations, financial impacts from COVID-19, the influence of COVID-19 on online gambling, mental health concerns and substance use. A series of odds ratio comparisons and measures of association were carried out. Results show significant likelihood of online gambling among those classified as high-risk gamblers (according to the Problem Gambling Severity Index) and those with past experience of online gambling, though migration from land-based gambling was apparent. Among high-risk online gamblers, the most predictive risk factors included moderate and severe anxiety and depression, reduced work hours, being influenced to gamble due to COVID-19, gambling under the influence of cannabis or alcohol and risky gambling motives tied to mental health concerns, including gambling because it helps with nervousness and depression, chasing gambling losses and seeking to earn income. This study has confirmed many of the risk associations presented in emerging COVID-19-related studies and past research on global economic crisis relating to gambling risk, mental health concerns and substance use. However, unlike many past studies, the present paper takes note of all of these elements holistically and provides incremental clarity on online gambling risk factors during the pandemic, specifically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Price
- Centre for the Advancement of Best Practices, The Responsible Gambling Council, 205-411 Richmond Street East, Toronto, Ontario M5A 3S5 Canada
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Håkansson A. Changes in Gambling Behavior during the COVID-19 Pandemic-A Web Survey Study in Sweden. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17114013. [PMID: 32516880 PMCID: PMC7312016 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17114013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Revised: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically changed everyday life, and policy makers have raised concerns about possible changes in gambling patterns during the pandemic. This study aimed to examine whether self-reported gambling has increased during the pandemic, and to examine potential correlates of such a change. This general population survey study in Sweden collected self-report data from 2016 web survey members (51 percent men, nine percent moderate-risk/problem gamblers). Correlates of increased gambling and increased gambling specifically due to COVID-19-related cancellation of sports were calculated. Four percent reported an overall gambling increase during the pandemic. The proportion of individuals reporting an increase, compared to individuals reporting a decrease, was markedly higher for online casinos (0.62), online horse betting (0.76) and online lotteries (0.73), and lower for sports betting (0.11). Overall, gambling increases were independently associated with gambling problems and increased alcohol consumption. In the sub-group, where there was an increase in specific gambling types in response to cancelled sports betting events, rates of gambling problems were high. In conclusion, only a minority report increased gambling in response to the pandemic, but this group has markedly higher gambling problems and changes in alcohol consumption, and may represent a sub-group with a particularly high vulnerability. This calls for preventive action in people with higher gambling risks in response to the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anders Håkansson
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, S-22100 Lund, Sweden;
- Region Skåne, Gambling Disorder Unit, S-20502 Malmö, Sweden
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