Online gambling during the COVID-19 pandemic in Canada: A mixed-method study
Abstract
ABSTRACT
The gambling industry has been severely impacted by the health crisis. In several countries, lockdowns have resulted in a migration to online gambling, the changing of game offering and player habits. From a public health perspective, one of the issues related to online gambling is the harms associated with them. Research questions. This study aims to provide a portray of online gambling habits in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, namely the changes in gambling patterns and the factors contributing to gambling problems. Method. The study included two subsamples of adults aged 18 and over residing in the province of Québec (Canada): 1) a telephone survey conducted with a random sample (N=1,300) using a two-stage proportional stratified sampling design (households, individuals), 2) a sample recruited through a web panel (N=3,200), and 3) qualitative interview data conducted with 98 online gamblers. Results. The analysis revealed an increase in gambling participation and initiation during the pandemic. The various profiles of online gamblers are contrasted on harm, mental health and the perceived impact of the pandemic on gambling patterns and problems.
IMPLICATION STATEMENTS
This study will provide one of the first population portray of gambling habits among a representative sample of online gamblers as well as the lived experience of gamblers during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings will inform key stakeholders and raise awareness about the harm associated with online gambling.
Online gambling during the COVID-19 pandemic in Canada: A mixed-method study
Park MGM, Las Vegas, NV
ABSTRACT
The gambling industry has been severely impacted by the health crisis. In several countries, lockdowns have resulted in a migration to online gambling, the changing of game offering and player habits. From a public health perspective, one of the issues related to online gambling is the harms associated with them. Research questions. This study aims to provide a portray of online gambling habits in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, namely the changes in gambling patterns and the factors contributing to gambling problems. Method. The study included two subsamples of adults aged 18 and over residing in the province of Québec (Canada): 1) a telephone survey conducted with a random sample (N=1,300) using a two-stage proportional stratified sampling design (households, individuals), 2) a sample recruited through a web panel (N=3,200), and 3) qualitative interview data conducted with 98 online gamblers. Results. The analysis revealed an increase in gambling participation and initiation during the pandemic. The various profiles of online gamblers are contrasted on harm, mental health and the perceived impact of the pandemic on gambling patterns and problems.
IMPLICATION STATEMENTS
This study will provide one of the first population portray of gambling habits among a representative sample of online gamblers as well as the lived experience of gamblers during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings will inform key stakeholders and raise awareness about the harm associated with online gambling.