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Suomi A, Kim J, Hahn MH, Biddle N. Gambling participation and risk after COVID-19: Analysis of a population representative longitudinal panel of Australians. Addiction 2024; 119:1430-1439. [PMID: 38725279 DOI: 10.1111/add.16523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on gambling participation and levels of gambling harm across populations during the pandemic is now addressed in a well-established body of empirical literature. This study aimed to measure the longer-term implications of COVID-19 on gambling participation and levels of gambling harm. DESIGN Population-based cohort study using group-based trajectory modelling. SETTING Australia, using gambling participation, problem gambling risk, sociodemographic and psychosocial data from 2019 (pre COVID-19), 2020, 2021 (during COVID-19) and 2023 (post COVID-19). PARTICIPANTS A population representative survey of Australian adults, including four waves collected in April 2019 (n = 2054), November 2020 (n = 3029), October 2021 (n = 3474) and January 2023 (n = 3370), with a subset (n = 3160) of the sample having longitudinal data available. MEASUREMENTS Participants were asked which gambling activities they participated in over the past 12 months for money. Problem gambling risk was measured by the nine-item Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI). FINDINGS There was an overall reduction in gambling participation during COVID-19 and return to pre-pandemic levels for most gambling activities by 2023. The longitudinal analysis yielded four trajectories of gambling participation from 2019 to 2023, including individuals who (1) never gambled (25.0% of the longitudinal sample; n = 789); (2) engaged in non-problematic gambling (59.8%; n = 1888); (3) ceased gambling during COVID-19 and started again post pandemic (10.7%; n = 337); and (4) engaged in high risk gambling (4.6%; n = 146), with particular demographic and psychosocial profiles and patterns of participation in specific gambling activities related to these trajectories. CONCLUSIONS Although overall gambling participation rates decreased at the population level in Australia during COVID-19, by 2023 participation in gambling appeared to have nearly returned to pre-pandemic levels. Patterns of gambling behavior before, during and after the pandemic appear to be heterogeneous.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aino Suomi
- Centre for Gambling Research, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
- Centre for Social Research and Methods, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Jeffrey Kim
- Centre for Gambling Research, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
- Centre for Social Research and Methods, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Markus H Hahn
- Centre for Social Research and Methods, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Nicholas Biddle
- Centre for Social Research and Methods, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
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Hing N, Russell AM, Rawat V, Bryden GM, Browne M, Rockloff M, Thorne HB, Newall P, Dowling NA, Merkouris SS, Stevens M. The COVID-19 lockdown experience suggests that restricting the supply of gambling can reduce gambling problems: An Australian prospective study. J Behav Addict 2024; 13:146-162. [PMID: 38345618 PMCID: PMC10988417 DOI: 10.1556/2006.2023.00085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and aims COVID-19 lockdowns limited access to gambling but simultaneously elevated psychosocial stressors. This study assessed the relative effects of these changes on gambling risk status during and after the Australian COVID-19 lockdown from late-March to late-May 2020. Methods The study administered three surveys to people who had gambled within the past year at T1. Wave 1 asked about before (T1, N = 2,125) and during lockdown (T2, N = 2,125). Subsequent surveys focused on one year (T3; N = 649) and two years after lockdown (T4, N = 458). The dependent variable was changes in reporting any problem gambling symptoms (PGSI 0 vs 1+). Bivariate analyses and multinomial logistic regression tested for significant associations with: demographics, psychosocial stressors (perceived stress, psychological distress, loneliness, health anxiety about COVID, financial hardship, stressful life events), gambling participation and gambling frequency. Results Gambling participation and at-risk gambling decreased between T1 and T2, increased at T3, with little further change at T4. When gambling availability was curtailed, decreased gambling frequency on EGMs, casino games, sports betting or race betting, and lower psychosocial stress, were associated with transitions from at-risk to non-problem gambling. When gambling availability resumed, increased EGM gambling frequency, decreased online gambling frequency, and higher psychosocial stress were associated with transitions from non-problem to at-risk gambling. Discussion and conclusions Gambling availability appears a stronger influence on gambling problems, at the population level, than psychosocial risk factors. Reducing the supply of high-risk gambling products, particularly EGMs, is likely to reduce gambling harm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nerilee Hing
- Experimental Gambling Research Laboratory, School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, CQUniversity, 6 University Dr, Branyan, QLD 4670, Australia
| | - Alex M.T. Russell
- Experimental Gambling Research Laboratory, School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, CQUniversity, 400 Kent St, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia
| | - Vijay Rawat
- Experimental Gambling Research Laboratory, School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, CQUniversity, 120 Spencer St, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - Gabrielle M. Bryden
- Experimental Gambling Research Laboratory, School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, CQUniversity, 6 University Dr, Branyan, QLD 4670, Australia
| | - Matthew Browne
- Experimental Gambling Research Laboratory, School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, CQUniversity, 6 University Dr, Branyan, QLD 4670, Australia
| | - Matthew Rockloff
- Experimental Gambling Research Laboratory, School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, CQUniversity, 6 University Dr, Branyan, QLD 4670, Australia
| | - Hannah B. Thorne
- Experimental Gambling Research Laboratory, School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, CQUniversity, 44 Greenhill Rd, Wayville, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Philip Newall
- School of Psychological Science, University of Bristol, 12a Priory Road, Bristol, BS8 1TU, United Kingdom
| | - Nicki A. Dowling
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, 1 Gheringhap St, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia
| | - Stephanie S. Merkouris
- Deakin University, Geelong, Australia, School of Psychology, 1 Gheringhap St, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia
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Marionneau V, Selin J, Impinen A, Roukka T. Availability restrictions and mandatory precommitment in land-based gambling: effects on online substitutes and total consumption in longitudinal sales data. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:809. [PMID: 38486180 PMCID: PMC10941527 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18325-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gambling causes important harms in societies. According to the public health approach, the most effective policies to reduce harms target full populations. Availability restrictions and mandatory precommitment are among the most effective measures. However, restrictions on the availability of some gambling products or channels may also be offset by increased consumption in other products. Substitution effects can have negative public health impacts due to differing harm potential across different gambling products. This paper uses longitudinal sales data (2019-2022) from the Finnish gambling monopoly Veikkaus. During the observation period, the availability of gambling was restricted in Finland due to subsequent waves of Covid-19-related restrictions. In addition, the gambling monopoly introduced mandatory precommitment to land-based EGMs. We focus on how these restrictive policy changes impacted the total consumption of gambling and possible substitution effects. METHODS The Finnish gambling monopoly provided weekly theoretical loss data per gambling product category and gambling channel (online, land-based) for the period of January 2019 - July 2022 based on a statutory obligation. We analysed the effects of availability restrictions and other public health measures on the consumption of different products using descriptive time series and regression analyses. We compared the sale of land-based products to online equivalents at product category level and included main policy change periods in the models. RESULTS Total consumption of gambling declined during 2019-2022 mainly due to reduced land-based electronic gambling machine (EGM) consumption. Declines in land-based EGM sales were not offset by online alternatives or other close substitutes in the long term. However, during the first wave of Covid-19, there was an observable substitution of land-based table games by online alternatives and land-based horse betting and possibly sports betting by online horse betting. Overall, the results also show that Covid-19 functioned as a boost to an already existing trend of increasing digitalisation of gambling. CONCLUSIONS The study provides empirical support for the effectiveness of public health-oriented policies in reducing the total consumption of gambling. Availability restrictions and mandatory precommitment are therefore likely to also reduce the burden of harms of gambling to individuals and societies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virve Marionneau
- Centre for Research on Addiction, Control, and Governance (CEACG), Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Helsinki, Unioninkatu 33, Helsinki, 00014, Finland.
- Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Mannerheimintie 166, Helsinki, 00271, Finland.
| | - Jani Selin
- Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Mannerheimintie 166, Helsinki, 00271, Finland
| | - Antti Impinen
- Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Mannerheimintie 166, Helsinki, 00271, Finland
| | - Tomi Roukka
- Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Mannerheimintie 166, Helsinki, 00271, Finland
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Stone CA, Yeung K, Shaw L, Billi R. Gambling in Victoria: Changes in Participation, Problem Gambling and Gambling Environment Between 2008 and 2018. J Gambl Stud 2024:10.1007/s10899-024-10282-x. [PMID: 38311695 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-024-10282-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
Gambling and its impacts are an important public health issue. The relationship between gambling, problem gambling and gambling harm is complex and dynamic. Replicate prevalence studies are useful for surveillance and monitoring gambling impacts within jurisdictions. The purpose of this study was to compare changes in gambling and problem gambling in the Victorian adult population between 2008 and 2018 by investigating individual gambling activities and exploring their relationship with the Victorian gambling ecosystem. Gambling participation has decreased; problem gambling prevalence has not. Investigation beyond these summary measures reveals important details: (a) Electronic Gaming Machines (EGMs), casino table games, race and sports betting ('high-risk activities'), informal private betting, and Keno, and their associations with problem gambling endure. Further, the strength of this association is unaffected by changes in product technology, delivery, or the Victorian environment in which they reside, (b) participation in high-risk activities, excluding EGMs, increased while for other activities they decreased, (c) EGMs continue to pose the greatest risk for Victorians, (d) males and young adults continue having a higher problem gambling prevalence rate and preferring both online gambling and high-risk activities (excluding racing favoured by an ageing, older cohort, and Keno, by all ages), and (e) gambling access and exposure proliferated enabling single site multiple gambling opportunities on high-risk activities. Young adults represented a new vulnerable group as they reach the legal gambling age. The most effective interventions (based on major falls in real expenditure (losses) on EGMs, the highest risk activity) were the smoking bans, removal of ATMs from venues and decreases in bet size. There is great potential for prevention, intervention, and minimising harm in the gambling environment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kristal Yeung
- Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lindsay Shaw
- Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rosa Billi
- Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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5
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Sohn YS, Son H. Online Gambling Patterns and Predictors of Problem Gambling Among Korean Adolescents During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-sectional Study. Asian Nurs Res (Korean Soc Nurs Sci) 2024; 18:20-27. [PMID: 38244980 DOI: 10.1016/j.anr.2024.01.002] [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: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study examined online gambling patterns among Korean adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic and identified predictors of problem gambling based on a socio-ecological model. METHODS It used nationally representative data from the 2020 National Survey on Youth Gambling Problems conducted by the Korea Center on Gambling Problems. This study selected a sample of 780 adolescents aged 13-18 years who reported having gambled online at least once in the last three months from the raw data of respondents. They were classified as the non-problem group and problem group according to the Gambling Problems Severity Scale (GPSS) of the Canadian Adolescent Gambling Inventory (CAGI). The predictive factors of problem gambling were analyzed by logistic regression analysis. RESULTS The prevalence of problem gambling was 24.6 %. Its predictors included intrapersonal [male (odds ratios, OR = 1.67); gambling prior to COVID-19 (OR = 2.08)] and interpersonal factors [frequent gamblers in peers (OR = 4.34); peer pressure (OR = 2.34)]. Social factors, such as gambling in online community (OR = 5.60), sports betting (OR = 53.24), and lotteries (OR = 17.03) were associated with problem gambling. CONCLUSIONS The major predictors of problem gambling among adolescent online gamblers included peer gambling and specific types of gambling. To prevent problem gambling, strategies targeting peer groups are essential. In addition, nurses need to share with families, schools, communities, and policymakers that online gambling, such as lotteries and sports betting, are high-risk of adolescent problem gambling, and recommend them to collaborate for stricter regulatory measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young-Sil Sohn
- College of Nursing, Pusan National University, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyunmi Son
- College of Nursing, Research Institute of Nursing Science, Pusan National University, Republic of Korea.
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Houghton S, Boy F, Bradley A, James R, Wardle H, Dymond S. Tracking online searches for gambling activities and operators in the United Kingdom during the COVID-19 pandemic: A Google Trends™ analysis. J Behav Addict 2023; 12:983-991. [PMID: 38141072 PMCID: PMC10786234 DOI: 10.1556/2006.2023.00055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Whilst some research has explored the impact of COVID-19 on gambling behaviour, little is yet known about online search behaviours for gambling during this period. The current study explored gambling-related online searches before, during and after the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in the UK. We also assessed whether search trends were related to Gambling Commission behavioural data over the same period. Methods Google Trends™ search data, covering thirty months from January 2020 to June 2022, for five gambling activities and five gambling operators were downloaded. Graphical displays of the weekly relative search values over this period were then produced to visualise trends in search terms, with key dates in COVID-19 policy and sporting events highlighted. Cross-correlations between seasonally adjusted monthly search data and behavioural indices were conducted. Results Sharp increases in internet searches for poker, slots, and bingo were evident during the first lockdown in the UK, with operator searches sharply decreasing over this period. No changes in gambling activity searches were highlighted during subsequent lockdowns, although small increases in operator-based searches were detected. Strong positive correlations were found between search data and industry data for sports betting and poker but not for slots. Conclusions Google Trends™ data may act as an indicator of population-level gambling behaviour. Substitution of preferred gambling activities for others may have occurred during the first lockdown when opportunities for sports betting were limited. Further research is needed to assess the effectiveness of internet search data in predicting gambling-related harm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott Houghton
- School of Psychology, Swansea University, Singleton Campus, Swansea, SA2 8PP, United Kingdom
- Department of Psychology, Northumbria University, Newcastle Upon Type, NE1 8ST, United Kingdom
| | - Frederic Boy
- iLab Innovation and Research Centre, School of Management, Swansea University, Bay Campus, Swansea, SA2 8PP, United Kingdom
| | - Alexander Bradley
- School of Education and Sociology, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth, PO1 2HY, United Kingdom
| | - Richard James
- School of Psychology, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, United Kingdom
| | - Heather Wardle
- School of Social and Political Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8QQ, United Kingdom
| | - Simon Dymond
- School of Psychology, Swansea University, Singleton Campus, Swansea, SA2 8PP, United Kingdom
- Department of Psychology, Reykjavík University, Menntavegur 1, Nauthólsvík, 101Reykjavík, Iceland
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7
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Horváth Z, Paksi B, Fernández-Aranda F, Jiménez-Murcia S, Demetrovics Z. The Predictive Role of Tolerance and Health Problems in Problem Gambling: A Cross-Sectional and Cross-Lagged Network Analyses. J Gambl Stud 2023; 39:1781-1798. [PMID: 36738377 PMCID: PMC9898861 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-023-10191-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The existing symptomatic networks of problem gambling are all based on cross-sectional data. Thus, there is a need to explore longitudinal symptom networks of problem gambling. Moreover, the replicability of cross-sectional symptom networks can be limited; therefore, further research should assess the convergence between cross-sectional networks of problem gambling symptoms. The present study aimed (i) to examine cross-sectional networks of problem gambling symptoms and evaluate their replicability and (ii) to examine a longitudinal cross-lagged network of problem gambling symptoms. The study included a representative sample of young adult gamblers (born between 1984 and 2000) from the first two waves of the Budapest Longitudinal Study (original sample: N = 2777; final sample: N = 335). The Problem Gambling Severity Index was used to assess symptoms of problem gambling. Cross-sectional symptom networks showed differences in the centrality of nodes. Correlations between the two cross-sectional networks were low in the presence vs. absence of edges, rank order of edge weights, and centrality estimates. However, network invariance tests indicated non-significant differences between them. The cross-lagged network revealed that the symptoms of tolerance and health problems could predict the subsequent presence of multiple problem gambling symptoms. Overall, limited evidence demonstrated the replicability of cross-sectional symptom networks of problem gambling. Future research needs to explore the utility of cross-sectional networks of problem gambling and assess more precisely causal relationships between problem gambling symptoms by distinguishing within- and between-subject effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zsolt Horváth
- Institute of Psychology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Izabella Utca 46, Budapest, 1064, Hungary.
- Centre of Excellence in Responsible Gaming, University of Gibraltar, Gibraltar, Gibraltar.
| | - Borbála Paksi
- Institute of Education, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Fernando Fernández-Aranda
- Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital of Bellvitge, Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER Fisiopatología Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERObn), Instituto de Salud Carlos III., Madrid, Spain
- Psychoneurobiology of Eating and Addictive Behaviors Group, Neurosciences Programme, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Clinical Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Susana Jiménez-Murcia
- Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital of Bellvitge, Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER Fisiopatología Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERObn), Instituto de Salud Carlos III., Madrid, Spain
- Psychoneurobiology of Eating and Addictive Behaviors Group, Neurosciences Programme, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Clinical Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Zsolt Demetrovics
- Institute of Psychology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Izabella Utca 46, Budapest, 1064, Hungary
- Centre of Excellence in Responsible Gaming, University of Gibraltar, Gibraltar, Gibraltar
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Snippe L, Boffo M, Galvin H, Willemen R, Pronk T, Dom G, Wiers RW. How We Lost 90% of Participants on a Bad Bet: Results from a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial on Cognitive Bias Modification in Problem Gamblers. J Gambl Stud 2023:10.1007/s10899-023-10263-6. [PMID: 38006537 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-023-10263-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/27/2023]
Abstract
Whilst opportunities to participate in gambling have increased, access to support for problem gamblers is lacking behind. This lack of balance calls for improved and accessible intervention methods. The present double-blind randomized controlled trial (RCT) explored the effectiveness of two interventions targeting automatic cognitive processes, known as Attentional Bias Modification (AtBM) and Approach Bias Modification (ApBM). It was hypothesized these interventions would reduce gambling behavior and reduce or reverse targeted biases. Participants (N = 331) were community-recruited Flemish (35%) and Dutch (65%) adult problem gamblers motivated to reduce or stop their gambling who received either six sessions of active training (AtBM or ApBM) or of the corresponding sham-training (sham-AtBM or sham-ApBM). Due to high attrition rates (90.1% up to the intervention phase) the study was terminated before completion, since it would greatly limit the validity of any results. A post hoc qualitative study was performed on a subset of participants to gain insight into contributing factors for the high attrition rate. Issues negatively impacting participants' motivation to complete the program were identified, as well as elements of the program that received approval. The results from this study provide a first insight into the potential of the use of online cognitive bias modification (CBM) interventions in problem gambling (PG). Suggestions and directions for future studies are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leroy Snippe
- Addiction Development and Psychopathology (ADAPT) Lab, Department of Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Nieuwe Achtergracht 129, 1018 WS, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
- Collaborative Antwerp Psychiatric Research Institute (CAPRI), University of Antwerp (UAntwerp), Wilrijk, Belgium.
| | - Marilisa Boffo
- Department of Psychology, Education and Child Studies (DPECS), Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Harriet Galvin
- Addiction Development and Psychopathology (ADAPT) Lab, Department of Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Nieuwe Achtergracht 129, 1018 WS, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Psychology, Education and Child Studies (DPECS), Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Thomas Pronk
- Addiction Development and Psychopathology (ADAPT) Lab, Department of Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Nieuwe Achtergracht 129, 1018 WS, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Geert Dom
- Collaborative Antwerp Psychiatric Research Institute (CAPRI), University of Antwerp (UAntwerp), Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Reinout W Wiers
- Addiction Development and Psychopathology (ADAPT) Lab, Department of Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Nieuwe Achtergracht 129, 1018 WS, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Centre for Urban Mental Health, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Ghelfi M, Scattola P, Giudici G, Velasco V. Online Gambling: A Systematic Review of Risk and Protective Factors in the Adult Population. J Gambl Stud 2023:10.1007/s10899-023-10258-3. [PMID: 37964161 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-023-10258-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
In recent decades, internet gambling has seen strong growth and diffusion due to intrinsic characteristics that make it particularly attractive to players (accessibility, anonymity, variety of games). This paper aims to present the current state of knowledge of the risk and protective factors of online gambling. A literature search conducted in the PubMed, PsychInfo, and Scopus databases found 42 articles, which were included in the review. Methodological aspects and risk and protective factors were analysed cross-sectionally. The results concerning risk and protective factors were distinguished by the level of analysis: individual, relational, and contextual. Two types of comparisons were considered: online vs. offline gamblers and online nonproblematic vs. problematic gamblers. The results of the two comparisons were juxtaposed to analyse their consistency and the different associations with factors. In general, the review showed that risk factors and variables at the individual level are investigated to a greater extent, while protective factors at the relational and contextual level need more in-depth study in future research. More specifically, this review found that even if online and offline gamblers shared most risk and protective factors, there are variables that they would not have in common. These factors could be important to consider in preventive interventions aimed at online gamblers and online problematic gamblers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michela Ghelfi
- Psychology Department, Università degli Studi di Milano-Bicocca, Piazza dell Ateneo Nuovo 1, 20126, Milan, Italy.
| | - Paola Scattola
- Società Cooperativa Sociale Piccolo Principe, 24061, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Gilberto Giudici
- Società Cooperativa Sociale Piccolo Principe, 24061, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Veronica Velasco
- Psychology Department, Università degli Studi di Milano-Bicocca, Piazza dell Ateneo Nuovo 1, 20126, Milan, Italy
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10
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Wall H, Kristiansen S, Molander O, Forsström D, Marionneau V. Gambling helpline contacts during COVID-19-related availability restrictions: an interrupted time series analysis. Public Health 2023; 224:14-19. [PMID: 37696197 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhe.2023.08.013] [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: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Gambling causes significant public health harms that are addressed in the help service network. Helplines are the most widely used service among those experiencing harms. The COVID-19 pandemic changed the global gambling landscape. This study assesses the effect of COVID-19-related restrictions on help-seeking for gambling via helplines. STUDY DESIGN We analysed data of national helplines in Sweden, Finland, and Denmark before and during the pandemic. The countries differed in their restrictions on the availability and accessibility of gambling during the pandemic. METHODS We performed an interrupted time series analysis of contact and web traffic data to helplines in Sweden, Finland, and Denmark before and during the COVID-19 pandemic (2017-2021). We also compared forecasted time series to the actual data to assess change. RESULTS The results show diverging patterns across the three countries. In Sweden, the number of helpline contacts remained stable throughout COVID-19, but there was an increasing trend in website visits. In Finland, the number of contacts declined during the first wave but rebounded during the second wave. Website visitation increased moderately. In Denmark, the number of contacts to the helpline soared over the COVID-19 period. CONCLUSIONS The diverging results suggest that help-seeking behaviour is likely to be impacted by differing policy approaches to gambling availability and limit-setting, visibility of helplines, and the prevalence of different forms of gambling in the three Nordic countries before and during the pandemic. This has implications for a preventive public health approach for gambling.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Wall
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Psychiatry Research, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Sweden; Stockholm Health Care Services, Stockholm County Council, Norra Stationsgatan 69, Stockholm 11364, Sweden.
| | - S Kristiansen
- Aalborg University, Department of Sociology and Social Work, Denmark
| | - O Molander
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Psychiatry Research, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Sweden; Stockholm Health Care Services, Stockholm County Council, Norra Stationsgatan 69, Stockholm 11364, Sweden
| | - D Forsström
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Psychiatry Research, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Sweden; Stockholm Health Care Services, Stockholm County Council, Norra Stationsgatan 69, Stockholm 11364, Sweden
| | - V Marionneau
- University of Helsinki, Centre for Research on Addiction, Control, and Governance, Finland
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11
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Horváth Z, Paksi B, Eisinger A, Felvinczi K, Demetrovics O, Demetrovics Z. Longitudinal joint trajectories of gambling disorder and hypomentalization: A latent class growth analysis among young adults. Compr Psychiatry 2023; 126:152409. [PMID: 37566950 DOI: 10.1016/j.comppsych.2023.152409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Only a few studies have investigated the relationship between risk for gambling disorder (GD) and mentalization difficulties. However, these results on positive correlations were all from cross-sectional studies; therefore, it would be important to investigate the longitudinal relationship between the constructs. AIMS It was aimed to identify subgroups of gamblers with different joint growth trajectories of risk for GD and hypomentalization (i.e., uncertainty of understanding own and others' mental states) and to compare the identified latent classes along impulsivity, sensation seeking and depression. METHODS Data from waves 1-3 of the Budapest Longitudinal Study were used. The final sample included 219 young adult gamblers who completed the study questionnaire and reported past-year gambling in all three waves (Females: N = 93 [42.29%]; Mean age: 28.36 years [SD = 4.29]). Standardized questionnaires were administered to measure the main constructs. RESULTS A four-class model was retained based on latent class growth analysis. Class 1 had consistently moderately high risk for GD and hypomentalization, and Class 4 presented consistently low risk for GD and hypomentalization. Classes 2-3 were characterized by low risk for GD and increasing hypomentalization. Class 1 had significantly higher sensation seeking and depression compared with the other subgroups in multiple cases. Class 4 showed significantly lower impulsivity and sensation seeking than the other classes. CONCLUSIONS Elevated hypomentalization was presented among individuals with risk for GD. However, there is little empirical evidence to support that the two constructs have convergently changing trajectories. A cautious interpretation of the results is recommended due to low symptom presence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zsolt Horváth
- Institute of Psychology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary; Centre of Excellence in Responsible Gaming, University of Gibraltar, Gibraltar.
| | - Borbála Paksi
- Institute of Education, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Andrea Eisinger
- Institute of Psychology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Katalin Felvinczi
- Institute of Psychology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | | | - Zsolt Demetrovics
- Institute of Psychology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary; Centre of Excellence in Responsible Gaming, University of Gibraltar, Gibraltar
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Miles M, Rothschild J, Åkesson G, Håkansson A. Nationwide, Multioperator Self-Exclusion and Psychiatric Comorbidity in Patients with Gambling Disorder: A Retrospective Chart Review Study from a Regional Treatment Unit. JOURNAL OF ADDICTION 2023; 2023:5532259. [PMID: 37808466 PMCID: PMC10555495 DOI: 10.1155/2023/5532259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
Gambling disorder is an addictive disorder that has been shown to have a detrimental effect on an individual's health, social, and financial situations. Voluntary self-exclusion is one way for patients to reduce harm in gambling disorder, but breaching one's self-exclusion appears to be common. In January 2019, Sweden launched a nationwide, multioperator self-exclusion instrument called Spelpaus (literally "game break"). Spelpaus is unique to Sweden, and there is limited research on the use of this type of nationwide, multioperator self-exclusion services, also in relation to gambling disorder and mental health. There is a reason to follow the clinical picture of treatment seeking for gambling disorder over time, and this study aims to explore clinical characteristics of patients seeking clinical gambling disorder treatment, including sex distribution and mental health comorbidity, as well as the use of Spelpaus amongst patients with gambling disorder and how frequently users gambled despite ongoing self-exclusion, in relation to sex and psychiatric comorbidities. A retrospective chart study was carried out on patients presenting to a regional gambling disorder treatment unit. Information regarding self-exclusions using Spelpaus, gambling despite self-exclusion, and the method of gambling despite self-exclusion as well as psychiatric comorbidities were extracted from medical records. Females were markedly more likely to report overall psychiatric comorbidities (48% vs. 25% among males, p < 0.001), affective, neurotic/anxiety-related (p < 0.001), and behavioral/emotional (p = 0.028) diagnoses and more likely to have two or more diagnoses excluding gambling disorder (p = 0.001). From 120 patients from whom information regarding self-exclusion was present, 114 (95%) had chosen to self-exclude. From the 114 self-excluders, 67 reported to have gambled despite self-exclusion, with unregistered websites being the most common method. Self-exclusion was not significantly related to sex (p = 0.146) or to psychiatric comorbidities (p = 0.178). In conclusion, psychiatric comorbidity was particularly common in female gambling disorder patients and gambling despite self-exclusion was common. Gambling regulations should be improved to help self-excluders avoid being able to gamble on unlicensed gambling operators. Further research should focus on sex differences and the association with psychiatric comorbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Miles
- Lund University, Faculty of Medicine, Lund, Sweden
| | | | | | - A. Håkansson
- Lund University, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Division of Psychiatry, Lund, Sweden
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Smith E, Michalski S, Knauth KHK, Kaspar K, Reiter N, Peters J. Large-Scale Web Scraping for Problem Gambling Research: A Case Study of COVID-19 Lockdown Effects in Germany. J Gambl Stud 2023; 39:1487-1504. [PMID: 36707481 PMCID: PMC9882744 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-023-10187-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic and the measures to prevent its spread have had a negative impact on substance use behaviour. It is likely that social distancing and lockdown measures have also altered gambling behaviour, for instance shifting from land-based to online gambling. We used large-scale web scraping to analyse posting behaviour on a major German online gambling forum, gathering a database of more than 200k posts. We examined the usage of different subforums, i.e. terrestrial, online gambling and problem gambling sections, and changes in posting behaviour related to the casino closures that were part of the nationwide restrictions in Germany in 2020. There was a marked increase in newly registered users during the first lockdown compared to the preceding weeks, an increase in the number of posts in the online gambling subforum and concurrent decrease in the terrestrial gambling subforum. Further, the number of short-latency replies was higher during the first lockdown compared to the preceding weeks. Many users who posted in both the online and terrestrial forum contributed at least once to the problem gambling subforum, implying that the topic of problem gambling is widely discussed. Our findings may indicate a shift from terrestrial to online gambling during lockdown, and mirror the general increase in screen time and usage of online platforms after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The analyses help to identify lockdown-related effects on gambling behaviour. These potentially detrimental effects pose a special threat for individuals at risk and may require monitoring and special public health measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elke Smith
- Department of Psychology, Biological Psychology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.
| | - Simon Michalski
- Department of Psychology, Biological Psychology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Kilian H K Knauth
- Department of Psychology, Biological Psychology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Kai Kaspar
- Department of Psychology, Social and Media Psychology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Nils Reiter
- Department of Digital Humanities, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Jan Peters
- Department of Psychology, Biological Psychology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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14
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Critchlow N, Hunt K, Wardle H, Stead M. Expenditure on Paid-for Gambling Advertising During the National COVID-19 'Lockdowns': An Observational Study of Media Monitoring Data from the United Kingdom. J Gambl Stud 2023; 39:1451-1465. [PMID: 36031649 PMCID: PMC9420675 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-022-10153-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Changes in gambling advertising during national COVID-19 'lockdowns', when stay-at-home rules restricted participation in certain gambling activities, provides important context to variance in gambling behaviour during these periods. This study describes expenditure on paid-for gambling advertising during three national lockdowns, compares expenditure to pre-pandemic estimates, and compares changes in expenditure by subsector. Data come from an observational study of weekly expenditure on paid-for gambling advertising in the United Kingdom (n = 135 weeks; beginning 2019 to mid-2021), focusing on three COVID-19 lockdowns: (1) March-May 2020; (2) November-December 2020; and (3) January-March 2021. We descriptively analysed how total advertising expenditure in each lockdown (£GBP, inflation-adjusted) compared to the same time points in 2019, both overall and by subsector (bookmakers, lotteries, online bingo, online casino and poker, gaming, pools, mobile content). Gambling advertising expenditure during lockdown one was 38.5% lower than 2019 (£43.5 million[m] vs. £70.7 m, respectively), with decreases across all subsectors (range: -81.7% [bookmakers] to -2.8% [online bingo]). Total advertising expenditure in lockdown two was 49.3% higher than 2019 (£51.7 m vs. £34.6 m), with increases for 5/7 subsectors (range: -31.6% [mobile content] to + 103.8% [bookmakers]). In lockdown three, advertising expenditure was 5.9% higher than 2019 (£91.2 m vs. £86.1 m), with increases for 4/7 subsectors (range: -92.4% [pools] to + 49.2% [mobile content]). Reductions in advertising expenditure in lockdown one are congruent with self-reported reductions in overall gambling also observed during this period. Further research is needed to determine whether increased advertising expenditure in lockdowns two and three correlates with increased gambling, overall and for specific subsectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan Critchlow
- Institute for Social Marketing and Health, University of Stirling, FK9 4LA, Stirling, Scotland.
| | - Kate Hunt
- Institute for Social Marketing and Health, University of Stirling, FK9 4LA, Stirling, Scotland
| | - Heather Wardle
- School of Social and Political Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland
| | - Martine Stead
- Institute for Social Marketing and Health, University of Stirling, FK9 4LA, Stirling, Scotland
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15
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Sirola A, Nyrhinen J, Wilska TA. Psychosocial Perspective on Problem Gambling: The role of Social Relationships, Resilience, and COVID-19 Worry. J Gambl Stud 2023; 39:1467-1485. [PMID: 36622471 PMCID: PMC9827443 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-022-10185-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has amplified several psychosocial risks and problem behaviors among vulnerable individuals. Given that gambling has high addictive potential, it is important to consider the underlying mechanisms of problem gambling. This study examined psychosocial factors associated with pandemic-time problem gambling.Cross-sectional data were gathered via an online survey of 18-75-year-old Finnish, Swedish, and British respondents (n = 2,022) who reported having gambled at least occasionally during the pandemic. Measures included problem gambling, loneliness, COVID-19 worry, social support, and psychological resilience. Control variables included gender, age, and education. Structural equation modeling was used as an analytical technique.Loneliness was found to be associated with problem gambling. While COVID-19 worry was not directly associated with problem gambling, it predicted higher loneliness, which in turn was associated with problem gambling. Evidence was not found regarding the protective role of resilience or social support in problem gambling. However, social support was found to be associated with higher problem gambling severity. Male gender and younger age were associated with problem gambling.The results bring insight into underlying vulnerabilities regarding problem gambling during the pandemic. More focus should be placed on the quality and sources of social support, as well as on how psychosocial risk and protective factors might work differently among different populations of gamblers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anu Sirola
- Department of Social Sciences and Philosophy, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland.
| | - Jussi Nyrhinen
- Department of Social Sciences and Philosophy, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Terhi-Anna Wilska
- Department of Social Sciences and Philosophy, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
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16
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Tom MA, Edson TC, Louderback ER, Nelson SE, Amichia KA, LaPlante DA. Second Session at the Virtual Poker Table: A Contemporary Study of Actual Online Poker Activity. J Gambl Stud 2023; 39:1295-1317. [PMID: 35882744 PMCID: PMC9325659 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-022-10147-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Technological advancements and worldwide television exposure led to a poker boom in the early 2000s, and poker (both live and online) has retained some of that popularity today. The present study examined online poker playing trends based on actual electronic betting records data for 2489 subscribers to a major global internet gambling operator from 2015 to 2017. We found that overall financial involvement (median total overall spend: €439.7) and time commitment (median number of sessions: 43) during the two-year study period were relatively moderate. We identified the top 1% by total overall spend as a subgroup of highly involved players with disproportionately higher financial involvement (median total overall spend: €272,581.4) and time commitment (median number of sessions: 1149). Our results were similar to those reported in LaPlante et al.'s (Comput Hum Behav 25(3):711-717, 2009. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chb.2008.12.027 ) study of online poker betting records, suggesting that players' levels of involvement are similar to those from ten years ago despite numerous changes to the online poker environment. We also analyzed records of deposits and withdrawals, and we observed similar indicators of moderate gambling behavior within the overall sample (median two-year total amount deposited: €176.4). In contrast to popular beliefs about internet gambling, in our sample, most online poker play was arguably moderate. However, a small percentage of highly involved players play poker at extreme levels and require closer scrutiny.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew A Tom
- Division on Addiction, Suite 630, Cambridge Health Alliance, Malden, MA, 02148, USA.
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Timothy C Edson
- Division on Addiction, Suite 630, Cambridge Health Alliance, Malden, MA, 02148, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Eric R Louderback
- Division on Addiction, Suite 630, Cambridge Health Alliance, Malden, MA, 02148, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sarah E Nelson
- Division on Addiction, Suite 630, Cambridge Health Alliance, Malden, MA, 02148, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Karen A Amichia
- Division on Addiction, Suite 630, Cambridge Health Alliance, Malden, MA, 02148, USA
| | - Debi A LaPlante
- Division on Addiction, Suite 630, Cambridge Health Alliance, Malden, MA, 02148, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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17
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Kim Y, Lee S, Park S, Lee J. The Relationship Between Gambling Accessibility and Behavior Among Korean Adults. J Gambl Stud 2023:10.1007/s10899-023-10236-9. [PMID: 37452234 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-023-10236-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
This is the first population-based study in South Korea to examine the comprehensive nature of gambling accessibility. While most previous studies have examined only the physical aspects of gambling accessibility, this study accepts that gambling accessibility is multi-dimensional comprising physical, social, and cognitive accessibility, and tests the predictive power of each dimension of gambling behavior. We measured gambling behaviors in three ways: problem gambling, time spent on gambling, and gambling expenditure. Using a proportional quota sampling method (based on gender, age, and region) to represent the general Korean population, we identified 8245 adults (aged 19-69 years), and 2044 participated in online survey from July 1 to July 9, 2021. Study findings revealed that, among the three accessibility dimensions, social accessibility was the strongest predictor of all three gambling behavior measures. Study findings provide insights for developing culturally sensitive gambling prevention programs and highlight the importance of a comprehensive examination of the relationship between gambling accessibility and gambling behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongseok Kim
- Department of Social Welfare & Graduate Department of Addiction Studies, The Catholic University of Korea, 43 Jibong-ro, Bucheon, Gyeonggi-do, 14662, South Korea.
- Graduate Department of Addiction Studies, The Catholic University of Korea, 43 Jibong-ro, Bucheon, Gyeonggi-do, 14662, South Korea.
| | - Sokho Lee
- Graduate Department of Addiction Studies, The Catholic University of Korea, 43 Jibong-ro, Bucheon, Gyeonggi-do, 14662, South Korea
| | - Shinyoung Park
- Graduate Department of Addiction Studies, The Catholic University of Korea, 43 Jibong-ro, Bucheon, Gyeonggi-do, 14662, South Korea
| | - Junghee Lee
- School of Social Work, Portland State University, 1800 SW 6th Ave., Portland, OR, USA
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18
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Hagen AEF, Nogueira-Arjona R, Sherry SB, Rodriguez LM, Yakovenko I, Stewart SH. What explains the link between romantic conflict with gambling problems? Testing a serial mediational model. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1018098. [PMID: 37502746 PMCID: PMC10370473 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1018098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction While individuals have many motives to gamble, one particularly risky motive for gambling is to cope with negative affect. Conflict with one's romantic partner is a strong predictor of negative affect, which may elicit coping motives for gambling and, in turn, gambling-related problems. Support for this mediational model was demonstrated in relation to drinking-related problems. We extended this model to gambling. Method Using a cross-sectional design, we examined links between romantic conflict (Partner-Specific Rejecting Behaviors Scale), negative affect (Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scales-21), coping gambling motives (Gambling Motives Questionnaire, coping subscale), and gambling-related problems [Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI)] in 206 regular gamblers (64% men; mean age = 44.7 years; mean PGSI = 8.7) who were in a romantic relationship and recruited through Qualtrics Panels in July 2021. Results Results supported our hypothesis that the association between romantic conflict and gambling-related problems would be sequentially mediated through negative affect and coping gambling motives, β = 0.38, 95% CI [0.27, 0.39], and also showed a strong single mediation pathway through negative affect alone, β = 0.27, 95% CI [0.17, 0.38]. Discussion Negative affect and coping gambling motives partially explain the link between romantic conflict and gambling-related problems. Interventions should target both negative affect and coping gambling motives in response to romantic conflict to reduce gambling-related problems in partnered gamblers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda E. F. Hagen
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | | | - Simon B. Sherry
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Lindsey M. Rodriguez
- Department of Psychology, University of South Florida St. Petersburg Campus, Tampa, FL, United States
| | - Igor Yakovenko
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Sherry H. Stewart
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
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Payments transaction data from online casino players and online sports bettors. Data Brief 2023; 48:109077. [PMID: 37025505 PMCID: PMC10070505 DOI: 10.1016/j.dib.2023.109077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Raw datasets were sourced from a U.S. based provider of digital gambling payments systems, who has demanded to remain anonymous. The raw datasets cover a time period of 6-years (2015-2021), representing over 300,000 customers and approximately 90 million transaction records. One of these raw datasets is a transaction log file representing customer payment transaction data across a variety of gambling merchants (e.g., online casinos, sportsbooks, and lottery providers). With this article we describe the transaction log file and provide two filtered subsets of the data. The subsets contain 1-year of customer payments transaction records for two gambling merchants: (1) a casino-focused brand and (2) a sports-focused brand. These data will be particularly helpful to researchers in the fields of gambling studies and behavioral sciences, and more generally for data and computer scientists. With digital payments becoming increasingly prevalent across the gambling industry, these data can be used to explore how individuals' payment behavior can inform us about their gambling behavior. The granularity and timespan of the data provide an opportunity to apply a variety of data science and machine learning techniques.
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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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21
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Problem gambling severity, gambling behavior, substance use, and mental health in gamblers who do and do not use cannabis: Evidence from a Canadian national sample. Addict Behav 2023; 137:107520. [PMID: 36257248 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2022.107520] [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: 04/18/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cannabis use frequently co-occurs with gambling, and evidence indicates that both acute and chronic cannabis use may influence gambling behavior. The primary aim of the present study was to further contribute to the literature on this relationship by examining data collected from a Canadian national study of gambling. METHODS Respondents consisted of 10,054 Canadian gamblers recruited from Leger Opinion's (LEO) online panel. In this study, gamblers who used cannabis were compared with non-users across a number of gambling as well as demographic and mental health variables. RESULTS Of the total sample, 25.4 % reported past 12-month cannabis use. Among the 2,553 cannabis-users, 21.3 % reported daily use, and 69.9 % reported using once a month or more. A total of 56.2 % indicated they had used cannabis while gambling in the past 12 months. Bivariate analysis found significant differences between cannabis use and non-use on numerous demographic, mental health, and gambling-related variables. Individuals with greater problem gambling severity scores, more hours gambling, and a larger range of gambling activities were more likely to endorse using cannabis. Hierarchical logistic regression revealed that tobacco use, and having experienced significant child abuse were predictors of cannabis use. Non-use of cannabis was associated with older age, less engagement in online gambling, and being less likely to consume alcohol. CONCLUSION The present findings both corroborate previous studies and expand upon the relationship between cannabis and gambling.
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Forsström D, Lindner P, Hayer T. Editorial: Gambling during COVID-19: Changes, risks, challenges and opportunities in the wake of COVID-19. Front Psychol 2023; 13:1110963. [PMID: 36687931 PMCID: PMC9846797 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.1110963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- David Forsström
- Department of Psychology, Uppsala University, Stockholm, Sweden,Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Psychiatry Research, Stockholm Health Care Services, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden,Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden,*Correspondence: David Forsström ✉
| | - Philip Lindner
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Psychiatry Research, Stockholm Health Care Services, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden,Centre for Dependency Disorders, Stockholm Health Care Services, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Tobias Hayer
- Department for Health and Society, Institute of Public Health and Nursing Research, University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany
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23
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Pellegrini CA, DeVivo K, Kozak AT, Unick JL. Bad situation, treat yourself: a qualitative exploration of the factors influencing healthy eating habits during the COVID-19 pandemic. Health Psychol Behav Med 2023; 11:2182307. [PMID: 36890801 PMCID: PMC9987739 DOI: 10.1080/21642850.2023.2182307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose To explore barriers and facilitators to healthy eating during the COVID-19 pandemic among adults enrolled in an internet-based weight loss program. Methods Adults in an internet-delivered weight loss program were recruited to participate. Participants completed online study surveys and a semi-structured interview via telephone between June 1, 2020 and June 22, 2020. The interview included questions to explore how the COVID-19 pandemic has influenced dietary behaviors. Constant comparative analysis was used to identify key themes. Results Participants (n = 30) were primarily female (83%) and white (87%), 54.6 ± 10.0 years old, and had a mean body mass index of 31.1 ± 4.5 kg/m2. Barriers included snacking/ease of access to food, eating as a coping mechanism, and lack of routine/planning. Facilitators included calorie control, regular routine/scheduling, and self-monitoring. General themes with eating were a change in eating out frequency or modality, cooking more, and changes in alcohol consumption. Conclusion Eating habits among adults enrolled in a weight loss program changed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Future weight loss programs and public health recommendations should consider modifying recommendations to place increased emphasis on strategies to overcome barriers to healthy eating and promote facilitators that may help with healthy eating, particularly during unexpected circumstances or events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine A Pellegrini
- Department of Exercise Science, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Katherine DeVivo
- Department of Exercise Science, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Andrea T Kozak
- Department of Psychology, Oakland University, Rochester, MI, USA
| | - Jessica L Unick
- The Miriam Hospital's Weight Control and Diabetes Research Center, Warren Alpert Medical School at Brown University, Providence, USA
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A large-scale prospective study of big wins and their relationship with future involvement and risk among actual online sports bettors. COMPUTERS IN HUMAN BEHAVIOR 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2023.107657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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25
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Junaid F, Badrinath P. Role for Directors of Public Health in local gambling licensing. Perspect Public Health 2023; 143:18-19. [PMID: 36694967 DOI: 10.1177/17579139221094681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- F Junaid
- Foundation Year 2 Doctor in Public Health, Public Health Suffolk, Suffolk County Council, Ipswich, UK
| | - P Badrinath
- Consultant in Public Health, Directorate of Public Health & Communities, Public Health Suffolk, Suffolk County Council, Endeavour House, Ipswich IP1 2BX, UK
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26
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Egorov AY. [Behavioral (non-chemical) addictions and COVID-19]. Zh Nevrol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova 2023; 123:41-46. [PMID: 36719118 DOI: 10.17116/jnevro202312301141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The review examines the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the prevalence, manifestation, as well as the possibility of preventing and treating behavioral (non-chemical) addictions. Particular attention is paid to various manifestations of Internet addiction (IA): gaming, gambling, cybersexual and food addiction (FA). During the pandemic, Internet use increased significantly, leading to an increase in IA, mainly due to gaming, which correlated with the level of psychosocial problems. The increase in gambling occurred mainly in individuals with addiction or risk groups, while in the population the frequency of gambling decreased or did not change. Immediately after the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of requests to porn sites increased dramatically, suggesting an increase in cybersex addiction. However, longitudinal studies in adolescents show a slight decrease in the interest in pornography in boys, and an increase from an initially low level in girls. The proportion of eating disorders and FA significantly increased. An increase in FA was associated with depression, anxiety, and also in obese individuals. In the era of COVID-19 prevention practices and general remedial activity should take into account the needs of the general population, emphasizing the importance of self-regulating and balanced lifestyles with moderate and sensible Internet use during the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Y Egorov
- Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry of the Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg, Russia.,Mechnikov North-West State Medical University, St. Petersburg, Russia.,Saint Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia
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Worsened Anxiety and Loneliness Influenced Gaming and Gambling during the COVID-19 Pandemic. J Clin Med 2022; 12:jcm12010249. [PMID: 36615049 PMCID: PMC9820879 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12010249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: To study the prevalence and patterns of problematic gaming and gambling during the COVID-19 pandemic and the association with psychiatric traits and major types of anxiety categories. Method: 1067 young adults participated in both wave 3 (2018) and wave 4 (2021) of the SALVe Cohort. Associations with psychiatric symptoms and anxiety were examined using logistic regression and Chi-square tests. Results: Problematic gaming decreased by 1.3 percentage points to 23.2% since the start of the pandemic, while problematic gambling increased by 0.9 percentage points to 6.5% in w4. Average time spent playing video games/day decreased from 2.2 h (w3) to 1.7 h (w4), while increases in gaming activity were associated with worsened feelings of loneliness (p = 0.002), depression (p < 0.001), and anxiety (p < 0.01) during the pandemic. Predictors for problematic gaming at w4 were previous problematic gaming and social anxiety (p = < 0.001 and 0.01, respectively). Moreover, previous problem gambling also predicted problem gambling at w4 p < 0.001. All anxiety categories were associated with both problematic gaming and gambling when adjusted for age and sex. However, after adjusting for depression and insomnia, social anxiety was associated with problematic gaming (p < 0.001), while panic was associated with problem gambling (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Overall, problematic gaming has decreased since the start of the pandemic, while problem gambling has increased. Worsened feelings of loneliness, depression, and anxiety during the pandemic are associated with increased gaming. Moreover, the association between problematic gaming and gambling and anxiety is independent of depression and sleep problems.
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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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29
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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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30
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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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31
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Otis E, Kim AJ, Stewart SH, Sherry SB, Yakovenko I. Changes in sports gambling behavior during the COVID-19 pandemic in Canada. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:1018234. [PMID: 36440391 PMCID: PMC9682192 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.1018234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Sports betting is one of the most popular forms of gambling in Canada; recent prevalence estimates indicate that 7.9% of Canadian adults endorsed gambling on sports in the past year. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic led to the temporary closure of most major sports leagues worldwide beginning in March of 2020. These sudden closures created a dramatic decrease in the availability of sports betting opportunities in the early stages of the pandemic, followed by a subsequent increase in availability as most sport leagues returned during the summer of 2020. Using a retrospective self-report measure of gambling participation, the present study investigated how the gambling behaviors of N = 85 past-year sports gamblers changed over the course of the pandemic. It was hypothesized that sports gamblers would report an initial decrease in gambling behaviors from pre-pandemic baseline levels to the early stages of the pandemic in May of 2020 when the availability of sports gambling was heavily restricted, followed by an increase in gambling behaviors from May to August, in accordance with the re-emergence of live sporting events. The general pattern of results supported the hypotheses, though gambling behaviors did not completely return to baseline levels. Beyond quantifying the changes in gambling behaviors over the early stages of the pandemic in Canada, results may have implications regarding the utility of voluntary gambling exclusion programs as well as legislation concerning gambling access.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elijah Otis
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Andy J. Kim
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Sherry H. Stewart
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Simon B. Sherry
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Igor Yakovenko
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
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32
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St Quinton T. How can implementation intentions be used to modify gambling behavior? Front Psychol 2022; 13:957120. [PMID: 36438341 PMCID: PMC9682275 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.957120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Problem gambling can cause significant harm, yet rates of gambling continue to increase. Many individuals have the motivation to stop gambling but are unable to transfer these positive intentions into successful behavior change. Implementation intentions, which are goal-directed plans linking cues to behavioral responses, can help bridge the gap between intention and many health behaviors. However, despite the strategy demonstrating popularity in the field of health psychology, its use in the area of gambling research has been limited. This mini review illustrates how implementation intentions can be used to facilitate change in gambling behavior. Adopting the strategy could help reduce the number of people with gambling problems.
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33
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Marsden J, Brown J, Clark L, Cousijn J, Hall W, Hickman M, Holmes J, Humphreys K, Jackson SE, Peacock A, Tucker J. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on addictive disorders-an update. Addiction 2022; 117:2762-2766. [PMID: 36068188 DOI: 10.1111/add.16033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Luke Clark
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | - Wayne Hall
- University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | | | | | - Keith Humphreys
- Veterans Affairs and Stanford University Medical Centers, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | | | - Amy Peacock
- University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Fineberg NA, Menchón JM, Hall N, Dell'Osso B, Brand M, Potenza MN, Chamberlain SR, Cirnigliaro G, Lochner C, Billieux J, Demetrovics Z, Rumpf HJ, Müller A, Castro-Calvo J, Hollander E, Burkauskas J, Grünblatt E, Walitza S, Corazza O, King DL, Stein DJ, Grant JE, Pallanti S, Bowden-Jones H, Ameringen MV, Ioannidis K, Carmi L, Goudriaan AE, Martinotti G, Sales CMD, Jones J, Gjoneska B, Király O, Benatti B, Vismara M, Pellegrini L, Conti D, Cataldo I, Riva GM, Yücel M, Flayelle M, Hall T, Griffiths M, Zohar J. Advances in problematic usage of the internet research - A narrative review by experts from the European network for problematic usage of the internet. Compr Psychiatry 2022; 118:152346. [PMID: 36029549 DOI: 10.1016/j.comppsych.2022.152346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Global concern about problematic usage of the internet (PUI), and its public health and societal costs, continues to grow, sharpened in focus under the privations of the COVID-19 pandemic. This narrative review reports the expert opinions of members of the largest international network of researchers on PUI in the framework of the European Cooperation in Science and Technology (COST) Action (CA 16207), on the scientific progress made and the critical knowledge gaps remaining to be filled as the term of the Action reaches its conclusion. A key advance has been achieving consensus on the clinical definition of various forms of PUI. Based on the overarching public health principles of protecting individuals and the public from harm and promoting the highest attainable standard of health, the World Health Organisation has introduced several new structured diagnoses into the ICD-11, including gambling disorder, gaming disorder, compulsive sexual behaviour disorder, and other unspecified or specified disorders due to addictive behaviours, alongside naming online activity as a diagnostic specifier. These definitions provide for the first time a sound platform for developing systematic networked research into various forms of PUI at global scale. Progress has also been made in areas such as refining and simplifying some of the available assessment instruments, clarifying the underpinning brain-based and social determinants, and building more empirically based etiological models, as a basis for therapeutic intervention, alongside public engagement initiatives. However, important gaps in our knowledge remain to be tackled. Principal among these include a better understanding of the course and evolution of the PUI-related problems, across different age groups, genders and other specific vulnerable groups, reliable methods for early identification of individuals at risk (before PUI becomes disordered), efficacious preventative and therapeutic interventions and ethical health and social policy changes that adequately safeguard human digital rights. The paper concludes with recommendations for achievable research goals, based on longitudinal analysis of a large multinational cohort co-designed with public stakeholders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naomi A Fineberg
- Hertfordshire Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust, Hertfordshire, UK; School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK; School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
| | - José M Menchón
- Department of Psychiatry, Bellvitge University Hospital-IDIBELL, University of Barcelona, Cibersam, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Natalie Hall
- Centre for Health Services and Clinical Research, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK
| | - Bernardo Dell'Osso
- Luigi Sacco University Hospital, Psychiatry 2 Unit, University of Milan, Milan, Italy; "Aldo Ravelli" Center for Nanotechnology and Neurostimulation, University of Milan, Milan, Italy; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA; Centro per lo studio dei meccanismi molecolari alla base delle patologie neuro-psico-geriatriche", University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Matthias Brand
- General Psychology: Cognition and Center for Behavioral Addiction Research (CeBAR), University of Duisburg-Essen, Germany; Erwin L. Hahn Institute for Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Essen, Germany
| | - Marc N Potenza
- Departments of Psychiatry, Neuroscience and Child Study, Yale University School of Medicine, and Wu Tsai Institute, Yale University, New Haven, USA, New Haven, USA; Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling, Wethersfield, USA; Connecticut Mental Health Center, New Haven, USA
| | - Samuel R Chamberlain
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, UK; Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Giovanna Cirnigliaro
- Luigi Sacco University Hospital, Psychiatry 2 Unit, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Christine Lochner
- SAMRC Unit on Risk and Resilience in Mental Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, Stellenbosch University, South Africa
| | - Joël Billieux
- Institute of Psychology, University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Zsolt Demetrovics
- Centre of Excellence in Responsible Gaming, University of Gibraltar, Gibraltar, Gibraltar; Institute of Psychology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Hans Jürgen Rumpf
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Translational Psychiatry Unit, Research Group S:TEP (Substance use and related disorders: Treatment, Epidemiology and Prevention) University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Astrid Müller
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Hannover Medical School, Hanover, Germany
| | - Jesús Castro-Calvo
- Department of Personality, Assessment, and Psychological Treatments, University of Valencia, Spain
| | - Eric Hollander
- Autism and Obsessive Compulsive Spectrum Program, Psychiatric Research Institute at Montefiore-Einstein, Albert Einstein College of Medicine
| | - Julius Burkauskas
- Laboratory of Behavioral Medicine, Neuroscience Institute, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Vyduno al. 4, 00135 Palanga, Lithuania
| | - Edna Grünblatt
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Psychiatric University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Neuroscience Center Zurich, University of Zurich and ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Zurich Center for Integrative Human Physiology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Susanne Walitza
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Psychiatric University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Neuroscience Center Zurich, University of Zurich and ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Zurich Center for Integrative Human Physiology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ornella Corazza
- Department of Clinical Pharmacological and Biological Science, University of Hertfordshire
| | - Daniel L King
- College of Education, Psychology, & Social Work, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Dan J Stein
- SAMRC Unit on Risk & Resilience in Mental Disorders, Dept of Psychiatry & Neuroscience Institute, University of Cape Town
| | - Jon E Grant
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Chicago
| | - Stefano Pallanti
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, New York, USA; INS Istituto di Neuroscienze, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Michael Van Ameringen
- Deptartment of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Konstantinos Ioannidis
- Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK; Department of International Health, Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Lior Carmi
- Post-Trauma Center, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Aviv University, Israel; Reichman University, The Data Science Institution, Herzliya, Israel
| | - Anna E Goudriaan
- Amsterdam UMC, Department of Psychiatry, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Institute for Addiction Research & Arkin, the Netherlands
| | - Giovanni Martinotti
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, G. D'Annunzio University, Chieti, Italy
| | - Célia M D Sales
- Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal; Center for Psychology at University of Porto (CPUP), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Julia Jones
- School of Health and Social Work, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK
| | | | - Orsolya Király
- Institute of Psychology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Beatrice Benatti
- Luigi Sacco University Hospital, Psychiatry 2 Unit, University of Milan, Milan, Italy; "Aldo Ravelli" Center for Nanotechnology and Neurostimulation, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Matteo Vismara
- Luigi Sacco University Hospital, Psychiatry 2 Unit, University of Milan, Milan, Italy; "Aldo Ravelli" Center for Nanotechnology and Neurostimulation, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Luca Pellegrini
- Hertfordshire Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust, Hertfordshire, UK; School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK
| | - Dario Conti
- Hertfordshire Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust, Hertfordshire, UK; Luigi Sacco University Hospital, Psychiatry 2 Unit, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Ilaria Cataldo
- Department of Psychology and Cognitive Science, University of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | - Gianluigi M Riva
- School of Information and Communication Studies, University College Dublin
| | - Murat Yücel
- Brain Park, Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, and Monash Biomedical Imaging Facility, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Maèva Flayelle
- Institute of Psychology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Joseph Zohar
- Post-Trauma Center, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Aviv University, Israel
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35
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Gambling Disorder and Stigma: Opportunities for Treatment and Prevention. CURRENT ADDICTION REPORTS 2022; 9:410-419. [PMID: 36093357 PMCID: PMC9440767 DOI: 10.1007/s40429-022-00437-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of Review Gambling disorder is among the most stigmatized mental health problems. More research is needed to understand the mechanisms that underlie this stigma and the effects of stigma-reduction interventions. This paper reviews extant literature on the stigma of gambling disorder and highlights evidence from this research and the broader mental illness stigma literature to help advance research on the prevention and reduction of gambling-related stigma. Recent Finding The public stigma of gambling disorder includes stereotypes of affected individuals as “greedy” and “irresponsible,” beliefs that affected individuals are to blame for their problems, and desire to avoid social contact with affected individuals. Stigmatizing attitudes held by the public are often internalized by individuals with gambling disorder, which leads to problem concealment, reduced treatment-seeking, and decreased self-esteem. Women with gambling disorder, as well as those with more severe gambling problems and who perceive greater stigma by the public, are most vulnerable to self-stigma. There is evidence that certain beliefs may underlie the stigmatization of gambling disorder, including beliefs about its causes. Contact- and education-based interventions show efficacy for the reduction of mental illness-related stigma more broadly; additional research is needed to determine the efficacy of various stigma reduction strategies for gambling disorder specifically. Summary Gambling disorder is highly stigmatized relative to other mental health problems, in part because it is viewed as more likely to be caused by controllable factors. Interventions that emphasize the biopsychosocial etiology of gambling disorder may help to prevent and reduce the blame and stigmatization of affected individuals. Structural stigma within domains such as legislation, healthcare, and the gambling industry, interventions to reduce self-stigma, stigma among mental health professionals, and the influence of culture on stigma and its reduction are critical issues for future research.
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Gambling in Canada During the Pandemic: 6 Months After the National COVID Lockdown. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF ADDICTION 2022. [DOI: 10.1097/cxa.0000000000000157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
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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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An interrupted time series analysis of gambling behavior based on gambling operator revenue-based taxation during the COVID-19 pandemic in Sweden. Public Health 2022; 211:14-20. [PMID: 35988505 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhe.2022.07.003] [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: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The impact of COVID-19 on gambling behavior and the gambling industry itself has been widely speculated. Prior studies have shown how boredom, social isolation, poor mental health, and financial hardships, all of which have been associated with COVID-19, can aggravate problem gambling behaviors in patients with gambling disorders while also luring newcomers. Few studies have used methods other than self-report to assess longitudinal behavioral changes in gambling behavior before versus during the pandemic. STUDY DESIGN The present study addresses this gap by using an interrupted time series approach on data obtained from the Swedish Gambling Authority measuring taxation on gambling vendors' revenue between January 2019 and November 2021. METHODS March, June, and October 2020 were chosen as interruption points as they correspond to the pandemic's commencement, the return of elite sports, and the second wave of cases in Sweden, respectively. We hypothesized that the pandemic would be associated with both temporary changes for select gambling types and long-term increases in online gambling. RESULTS Results revealed the pandemic's onset was associated with transient effects at each point of interruption, as well as long-term upward trends in total gambling and commercial online gambling, excluding horse betting and the state-owned operator for online casinos and betting. CONCLUSIONS The present study's findings, although consistent with the theory that gambling activity could increase during the pandemic, contradict previous studies that found no changes or a decrease from pre-COVID-19 levels. Findings indicate that the pandemic and Sweden's reaction to it were associated with increased use of some gambling products.
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Savolainen I, Vuorinen I, Sirola A, Oksanen A. Gambling and gaming during COVID-19: The role of mental health and social motives in gambling and gaming problems. Compr Psychiatry 2022; 117:152331. [PMID: 35772368 PMCID: PMC9188486 DOI: 10.1016/j.comppsych.2022.152331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The uncertain and stressful global situation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic has the potential to cause anxiety and impact people's mental health. Simultaneously, social distancing policies have isolated people from their normal social interactions. These societal changes have inevitably influenced gambling and gaming practices, and many people may have turned to betting or gaming as a means of social exchange. This study examined the influence of COVID-19 anxiety on increased mental health problems and their relationship to gambling and gaming problems. The mediating role of social motives for gambling and gaming was also investigated. MATERIAL AND METHODS Finnish adults (N = 1530; Mage = 46.67; 50.33% male) were recruited from a volunteer participant panel to participate in a survey study. COVID-19 anxiety was assessed using a scale adapted from the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory. Mental health problems were evaluated with the five-item Mental Health Inventory. Gambling problems were measured using the Problem Gambling Severity Index, and gaming problems were measured with the Internet Gaming Disorder Test. Social motives for gaming were evaluated using a single-item measure. Analyses used generalised structural equation modelling. RESULTS COVID-19 anxiety predicted increased mental health problems, which were associated with heightened gambling and gaming problems. Social motives for gambling and gaming were a significant mediator, suggesting that gambling and gaming problems are emphasized markedly among those who are socially motivated by and involved in such games. CONCLUSIONS Mental health problems experienced during the pandemic and the social properties of games might accentuate gambling and gaming problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iina Savolainen
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Tampere University, 33014 Tampere, Finland.
| | - Ilkka Vuorinen
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Tampere University, 33014 Tampere, Finland
| | - Anu Sirola
- Department of Social Sciences and Philosophy, University of Jyväskylä, 40014 Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Atte Oksanen
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Tampere University, 33014 Tampere, Finland
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Kalke J, Schütze C, Lahusen H, Buth S. Parameters for Change in Offline Gambling Behavior After the First COVID-19 Lockdown in Germany. Front Psychol 2022; 13:857234. [PMID: 35865690 PMCID: PMC9295738 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.857234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
IntroductionIn spring 2020, the first nationwide lockdown in response to the spreading COVID-19 pandemic came into effect in Germany. From March to May, gambling venues, casinos, and betting offices were forced to close. This study explores how land-based gamblers respond to short-term closures of higher-risk forms of gambling. Which gamblers are particularly susceptible to switching to online gambling? Which are more likely to use the lockdown as an opportunity to quit or pause gambling? Potential parameters for these switching or cessation processes are identified using multivariate multinomial logistic regression analysis.MethodsThe research questions are analyzed on the basis of quantitative data. For this purpose, a survey was conducted among members of a comparatively large German online access panel (“PAYBACK panel”). The sample of analysis consisted of 612 gamblers who had participated in at least one higher-risk form of gambling and had done so exclusively offline before the first lockdown (January and February 2020).ResultsA total of 37.1% of sports bettors ceased participation in higher-risk forms of gambling, compared to 64.1% of casino gamblers. Switching to online gambling, on the other hand, was a rather rare event, regardless of the form of gambling: the proportions differ between 7.7% (slot machines) and 10.9% (sports betting). In the multivariate model female gender, younger age, and a lower frequency of gambling before the first lockdown were found to be significant factors for quitting (instead of continuing) higher-risk offline gambling forms. Secondly, the analysis revealed that individuals with more pronounced cognitive distortions had an increased risk of switching to online gambling rather than staying offline.DiscussionA key finding of this study is that the temporary closure of offline venues does not result in a significant shift towards the online market. Instead, the results of this study show that these short, temporary closures of gambling venues were an appropriate opportunity to give individual groups of gamblers the opportunity to reflect, reduce or quit gambling. It is worth considering implementing such temporary closures as a preventive measure in the future – this should be investigated in advance in further evaluation studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jens Kalke
- Department of Psychiatry, Centre for Interdisciplinary Addiction Research of Hamburg University, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Institute for Interdisciplinary Addiction and Drug Research, Hamburg, Germany
- *Correspondence: Jens Kalke,
| | - Christian Schütze
- Department of Psychiatry, Centre for Interdisciplinary Addiction Research of Hamburg University, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Institute for Interdisciplinary Addiction and Drug Research, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Harald Lahusen
- Department of Psychiatry, Centre for Interdisciplinary Addiction Research of Hamburg University, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Institute for Interdisciplinary Addiction and Drug Research, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Sven Buth
- Department of Psychiatry, Centre for Interdisciplinary Addiction Research of Hamburg University, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Institute for Interdisciplinary Addiction and Drug Research, Hamburg, Germany
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Augner C, Vlasak T, Aichhorn W, Barth A. Psychological online interventions for problem gambling and gambling disorder - A meta-analytic approach. J Psychiatr Res 2022; 151:86-94. [PMID: 35472684 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2022.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The Covid-19 pandemic has reignited discussions about the prevalence of and treatment options for problem gambling and gambling disorder (PGGD). Since affected persons seldom seek professional help, online interventions can improve accessibility. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of psychological online interventions on PGGD. METHODS We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis and searched in PubMed, PsycINFO, and Google Scholar for peer-reviewed experimental and quasi-experimental research published between 2010 and 2021. We calculated two meta-anlyses, one for treatment control comparisons (TCC), and one for pre-post-comparisons (PCC). RESULTS We included six studies (ten TCC and n = 2076) in meta-analysis 1 and five studies (six PCC and n = 781) in meta-analysis 2. Online interventions turned out to be effective in both analyses with Hedges g = 0.41, 95% confidence interval = [0.22 to 0.60], p < .001, for meta-anaylsis 1 and Hegdes g = 1.28, 95% confidence interval = [0.85 to 1.71], p < .001, for meta-analysis 2. CONCLUSIONS We identified significant effects of online interventions on PGGD in both analyses, indicating the potential of online applications. We discuss methodological aspects and further research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoph Augner
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy & Psychosomatics, Christian-Doppler Medical Centre, University Clinics of the Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria; Institute for Human Resources Research in Health Care, University Clinics of the Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria.
| | - Thomas Vlasak
- Institute for Psychology, Sigmund Freud University Linz, Austria
| | - Wolfgang Aichhorn
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy & Psychosomatics, Christian-Doppler Medical Centre, University Clinics of the Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Alfred Barth
- Institute for Psychology, Sigmund Freud University Linz, Austria
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Gorenko JA, Konnert CA. Examination of the Problem Gambling Severity Index for Use with Older Adults: A Rasch Model Approach. J Gambl Stud 2022; 39:559-577. [PMID: 35778585 PMCID: PMC10075176 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-022-10138-2] [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: 06/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Research and prevalence studies commonly use the nine-item Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI; Ferris and Wynne in The Canadian Problem Gambling Index, 2001) to measure problem gambling severity in older adults. However, the appropriateness of the PGSI for use with older adults must be evaluated to ensure accurate interpretation of scores. This study evaluated the PGSI with older adults that gamble using a Rasch model approach, which has not yet been examined in the literature. Data from the Quinte Longitudinal Study (Wiiliams et al. in The Quinte Longitudinal Study of Gambling and Problem Gambling 2006-2011, Bay of Quinte region, Ontario [Canada] (V28), 2014) were utilized, accessed through the Gambling Research Exchange of Ontario (GREO). Using WINSTEPS.V5, a Rasch rating scale model was applied to an older adult sample from Ontario, Canada (n = 571, Mage = 66, range = 60-80 +) to assess: (1) the dimensionality and fit between individual PGSI items and the underlying latent construct of problem gambling; (2) utility of items and response options; and (3) potential differential item functioning (DIF) between genders. Using a larger sample (N = 3206, Mage = 45, range = 18-80 +), DIF was examined across three age subgroups. Results supported unidimensionality of the PGSI and item polarity (rpm range = 0.42-0.85). Infit and outfit statistics showed mixed model misfit for three items. The use of three response options were deemed productive for measurement, but almost always was not frequently endorsed. Model-person separation (1.00) and reliability (0.50) were poor, and model-item separation (6.12) and reliability (0.97) were excellent. There was no significant DIF between older adults by gender. Three items showed significant DIF between older and younger adults. Possible modifications to improve the PGSI for use with older adults are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie A. Gorenko
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4 Canada
| | - Candace A. Konnert
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4 Canada
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Marionneau V, Mandolesi G, Rolando S, Nikkinen J. Addressing gambling harms by reducing the supply of electronic gambling machines: a comparative study of Italy and Finland. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:1016. [PMID: 35590275 PMCID: PMC9119843 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-13398-0] [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: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Electronic gambling machines (EGMs) are amongst the most harmful forms of gambling. The high availability of EGMs is also linked to increased consumption. To reduce the burden of EGMs on public health, policies to reduce their numbers have recently been introduced in Italy and Finland. This study compares the aims and justifications of these legislative changes, as well as their overall impacts on total consumption. Methods The objectives and justifications of policies to reduce the number of EGMs were based on qualitative media analysis. The impacts on total consumption were measured using financial figures provided by gambling providers in Italy and Finland. Results Results show that the reductions in EGM numbers were justified in terms of public health concerns in both countries, but the amplitude of policies varied. In Italy, the reductions were more ambitious than in Finland, and included reductions in the number of gambling locations. The financial data nevertheless indicated that the reductions may not have been significant enough. Conclusions Public health concerns were initially highlighted in the media discussions, but eventually in both countries reduction policies were less ambitious due to industry lobbying and state revenue interests. The reductions therefore do not appear to have been effective in reducing total consumption and the burden on public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virve Marionneau
- Centre for Research on Addiction, Control, and Governance (CEACG), Faculty of Social Sciences, University Researcher, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
| | | | - Sara Rolando
- Research and Training Institute ECLECTICA, Turin, Italy
| | - Janne Nikkinen
- Centre for Research on Addiction, Control, and Governance (CEACG), Faculty of Social Sciences, University Researcher, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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Donati MA, Capitanucci D, Beccari C, Smaniotto R, Quadrelli E, Casini A, Primi C. What About Affected Family Members of Disordered Gamblers During the COVID-19 Pandemic? A Study in Italy During the Lockdown Restrictions. Front Psychol 2022; 13:801835. [PMID: 35558714 PMCID: PMC9088675 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.801835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Although some studies have been conducted on gambling behaviour in the general population or in clinical samples during the COVID-19 pandemic, less attention has been focused on Affected Family Members (AFMs) of disordered gamblers. To fill this gap, this study investigated the psychological state of disordered gamblers' AFMs during the COVID-19 lockdown in Italy, the European country first affected by the virus and with the largest gambling market. We were interested in understanding if the unavailability of most land-based gambling offerings during the lockdown created a sense of relief in AFMs. We also compared the quality of family relationships and emotional state during the lockdown of AFMs with those of their relative with Gambling Disorder (GD). Participants were 53 disordered gamblers' AFMs (77% female; mean age = 50.28). For 42 out of the 53 AFMs, we also recruited their relative with GD (86% male; mean age = 48.98). A semi-structured telephone interview was developed. Although AFMs reported a general interruption of the relative's gambling behaviour and a general sense of relief for the closure of gambling activities, accompanied by the perception of good family relationships, AFMs still felt tired, worried, and apprehensive and perceived more fear, stress, and anxiety than before the lockdown. A large proportion of AFMs engaged in potentially addictive behaviours, especially TV and mobile phone and Internet use, which increased in frequency compared to before the pandemic. They still perceived some gambling-related problematic behaviours from their relative and put in place coping strategies to manage the gambling problem. Even if they had a general positive orientation towards the future, they experienced fear when thinking about the reopening of gambling opportunities at the end of the lockdown. Compared to their relatives with GD, AFMs appeared more prone to perceiving a general negative state and a worsening of it from before the lockdown. Overall, this study shows that disordered gambling's AFMs can be considered as a particularly at-risk group who deserves focused clinical attention even during gambling closures related to pandemic lockdown.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Anna Donati
- Section of Psychology, Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug, and Child's Health, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Daniela Capitanucci
- Association Azzardo e Nuove Dipendenze [AND (Gambling and New Addictions)], Gallarate, Italy
| | - Carola Beccari
- Section of Psychology, Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug, and Child's Health, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Roberta Smaniotto
- Association Azzardo e Nuove Dipendenze [AND (Gambling and New Addictions)], Gallarate, Italy
| | | | - Alfredo Casini
- Mental Health and Addiction Department of La Spezia, La Spezia, Italy
| | - Caterina Primi
- Section of Psychology, Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug, and Child's Health, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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Nyemcsok C, Pitt H, Kremer P, Thomas SL. Young men's perceptions about the risks associated with sports betting: a critical qualitative inquiry. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:867. [PMID: 35501801 PMCID: PMC9059698 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-13164-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gambling is an inherently risky activity. New technologies have led to the development of new, online forms of gambling such as sports betting, with round the clock availability and accessibility. While young men have been identified as a group that may be particularly vulnerable to the harms associated with these new online products, few studies have qualitatively explored young men's perceptions of the risks associated with these products. Using concepts associated with the sociology of risk, this paper sought to explore the range of factors that may influence how 18-24 year old young Australian men conceptualise the risks associated with sports betting. METHODS Using a critical qualitative inquiry approach, in-depth interviews were conducted with sixteen participants in Victoria, Australia, who engaged in sports betting at least monthly. The data interpreted for this study included questions relating to awareness of gambling, the contexts associated with early gambling experiences; the factors that influenced current gambling behaviours, and why they engaged in gambling. A reflexive approach to thematic analysis was used to interpreted themes from the data. RESULTS Four key themes were constructed from the data relating to the factors that influenced risk perceptions. These included: 1) 'The role of early experiences', including exposure to gambling advertising in sport, and the gambling behaviours of social networks; 2) 'The influence of peer rivalry and competition', in which sports betting was used to form connections within and across peer groups; 3) 'The normalisation of gambling', including the embedding of gambling in everyday activities; and 4) 'The influence of perceptions of knowledge, skill, and control', including the belief that they could engage in responsible behaviours and stop gambling if they needed to. CONCLUSION This study indicated that a range of factors may influence how young men conceptualise the risks and benefits associated with sports betting. Current public health strategies for gambling that focus on individual determinants and responsibility paradigms must be broadened to target the social and commercial factors that influence young men's attitudes towards, and engagement in sports betting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Nyemcsok
- Institute for Health Transformation, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Gheringhap St, Geelong, Australia
| | - Hannah Pitt
- Institute for Health Transformation, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Gheringhap St, Geelong, Australia
| | - Peter Kremer
- Centre for Sport Research, School of Exercise & Nutrition Sciences, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Gheringhap St, Geelong, Australia
| | - Samantha L. Thomas
- Institute for Health Transformation, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Gheringhap St, Geelong, Australia
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Hing N, Russell AM, Black A, Rockloff M, Browne M, Rawat V, Greer N, Stevens M, Dowling NA, Merkouris S, King DL, Salonen AH, Breen H, Woo L. Gambling prevalence and gambling problems amongst land-based-only, online-only and mixed-mode gamblers in Australia: A national study. COMPUTERS IN HUMAN BEHAVIOR 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2022.107269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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Jiménez-Murcia S, Fernández-Aranda F. COVID-19 and Behavioral Addictions: Worrying consequences? Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2022; 56:77-79. [PMID: 34986441 PMCID: PMC8688764 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2021.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Susana Jiménez-Murcia
- Department of Psychiatry, Bellvitge University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain; CIBER Fisiopatologia Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERobn), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain; Department of Clinical Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Psychoneurobiology of Eating and Addictive Behaviors Group, Neurosciences Programme, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), 08908, Barcelona, Spain;.
| | - Fernando Fernández-Aranda
- Department of Psychiatry, Bellvitge University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain; CIBER Fisiopatologia Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERobn), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain; Department of Clinical Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Psychoneurobiology of Eating and Addictive Behaviors Group, Neurosciences Programme, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), 08908, Barcelona, Spain
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Gambling problems and associated harms in United Kingdom Royal Air Force personnel. Addict Behav 2022; 126:107200. [PMID: 34906882 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2021.107200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
International evidence indicates that currently serving and former military personnel may be at heightened vulnerability to problem gambling. The aim of the present study was to undertake the first survey of gambling experience and potential problems among serving United Kingdom Royal Air Force (RAF) personnel. Our objectives were to survey the frequency of gambling problems, types of gambling activities, examine mental health, alcohol use, and COVID-19-related associations with gambling, and identify potential risk factors for problem gambling among RAF personnel. A cross-sectional online survey was distributed to all serving RAF personnel in January 2021 and the final dataset consisted of n = 2119 responses. The Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI) identified gambling severity, the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) assessed depression, the Generalized Anxiety Disorder assessment (GAD-7) measured anxiety, and alcohol use was assessed with the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT). Questions relating to COVID-19 asked whether the pandemic had impacted one's gambling, mental health, and alcohol use. Findings indicated that 12.5% of personnel reported gambling problems, which included 8.0% with PGSI scores indicating low-risk gambling (1-2), 2.9% with moderate-risk gambling scores (3-4), and 1.6% with scores indicating problem gambling (≥8). Most personnel had no symptoms of depression or anxiety, and most experienced lower risk drinking levels. The likelihood of any gambling problem (PGSI ≥ 1) in RAF personnel was associated with age (18-24 years old), male gender, and Non-Commissioned ranks. Most participants reported a deterioration in their mental health due to COVID-19 and increased risky gambling. These findings indicate that gambling problems and associated harms are significant concerns for serving RAF personnel.
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Price A, Tabri N, Stark S, Balodis IM, Wohl MJA. Mental Health Over Time and Financial Concerns Predict Change in Online Gambling During COVID-19. Int J Ment Health Addict 2022; 21:1-15. [PMID: 35079239 PMCID: PMC8772534 DOI: 10.1007/s11469-021-00750-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
This study examined online gambling behavior during COVID-19 land-based gambling restrictions and associations with changes in mental health, impacts on household income due to the pandemic, financially focused motivations, and symptoms of gambling problems. A repeated online survey was administered to adult gamblers in Ontario, Canada. Wave 1 was conducted at the beginning of the first COVID-19 lockdown (April 2020) and wave 2 in August 2020. Respondents (N = 940) completed validated self-report questionnaires related to depression and anxiety, financial motivation, financial impacts due to the pandemic, online gambling behaviors, and problem gambling symptomatology. A cluster analysis identified three subgroups: no online gambling (subgroup 1), engagement in a range of gambling games online and change in gambling involvement (i.e., some increased and some decreased gambling; subgroup 2), and predominantly online lottery play with no change in online gambling (subgroup 3). Respondents who reported increased anxiety and depression symptom severity between the two waves and those who experienced greater symptoms of problem gambling and negative impacts on household income due to COVID-19 were most likely to be found in subgroup 2. Greater financial focus was also noted in this group. Results indicate a link between change in online gambling involvement during COVID-19 and increased mental health problems, elevated problem gambling severity, negative impacts on household income, and a greater financially focused self-concept. These results may help generate novel research questions examining short and long-term effects of the pandemic on online behaviors that inform policy and practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Price
- Centre for the Advancement of Best Practices, The Responsible Gambling Council, 411 Richmond Street East Unit 205, Toronto, ON Canada
- Ontario Gambling Research Society, Toronto, ON Canada
| | - Nassim Tabri
- Ontario Gambling Research Society, Toronto, ON Canada
- Department of Psychology, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON Canada
| | - Sasha Stark
- Centre for the Advancement of Best Practices, The Responsible Gambling Council, 411 Richmond Street East Unit 205, Toronto, ON Canada
- Ontario Gambling Research Society, Toronto, ON Canada
| | - Iris M. Balodis
- Ontario Gambling Research Society, Toronto, ON Canada
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON Canada
- Peter Boris Centre for Addictions Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON Canada
| | - Michael J. A. Wohl
- Ontario Gambling Research Society, Toronto, ON Canada
- Department of Psychology, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON Canada
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Marionneau V, Järvinen-Tassopoulos J. From Habit-Forming to Habit-Breaking Availability: Experiences on Electronic Gambling Machine Closures During COVID-19. Front Psychol 2022; 12:788586. [PMID: 35126239 PMCID: PMC8811210 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.788586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Electronic gambling machines (EGMs) are among the most harmful forms of gambling. The structural characteristics of EGMs prolong and reinforce gambling similarly to other habit-forming technologies. In Finland, the wide availability of EGMs in non-casino locations is likely to further reinforce the habit-creating nature of gambling offer by incorporating EGMs into everyday practices. The COVID-19 pandemic changed the landscape of gambling in Finland. The most visible change was the closure of land-based EGMs in non-casino environments, arcades, and the casino in March 2020. Since then, the status of EGMs has varied depending on the pandemic situation. The current qualitative study focuses on how Finnish past-year gamblers experience prolonged EGM closures and occasional re-openings 1 year into the pandemic. The data consist of responses to an online questionnaire eliciting experiences (N = 187) as well as interviews (N = 27, conducted in groups or alone). To aid our analysis, we employ the sociological pragmatist theory of the concept of "habit." The analysis focuses on gambler experiences on EGM shutdowns and re-openings, and views on whether closures have contributed to abstaining from gambling or to shifting to other gambling products. Policy implications of the results are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virve Marionneau
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Centre for Research on Addictions, Control, and Governance, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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