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Catalano A, Milani L, Franco M, Buscema F, Giommarini I, Sodano B, Gilcrease W, Mondo L, Marra M, Di Girolamo C, Bena A, Ricceri F. The impact of COVID-19 pandemic on gambling: A systematic review. Addict Behav 2024; 155:108037. [PMID: 38613856 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2024.108037] [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: 02/09/2024] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Since the COVID-19 outbreak, people's habits changed radically. In fact, to limit the spread of SARS-CoV-2, governments implemented restrictive measures that influenced the lives of individuals. The aim of this systematic review is to analyze the impact of COVID-19 on gambling by examining three different outcomes: frequency, expenditure, and transition among possible types of gambling. METHODS All studies assessing the impact of restrictive measures implemented to limit the spread of SARS-CoV-2 on gambling were included. For the search, two different databases were used: Pubmed and CINAHL. Moreover, two different populations were analyzed: the general population, and subjects who used to gamble before SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. All qualitative studies, reports not based on peer-review, and papers in which the statistical unit was not the subject but the gambling or wagering operators were excluded. RESULTS From the search, 408 reports were identified. Of these, 28 were included in the systematic review. From the studies, a strong reduction in the frequency and expenditure of land-based gambling emerged, while the results about online gambling were different among the studies. However, a reduction was observed assessing sports betting, and an increase emerged considering online casino and skill games. Finally, a significant migration from land-based gambling to online platforms was identified. The main reasons for these findings were the physical closures of land-based gambling venues and the more time spent at home, the suspension or cancelation of sporting events on which subjects used to bet, and more mental health issues during this challenging period. CONCLUSIONS The COVID-19 pandemic greatly affected subjects' habits, including gambling, by reducing land-based gambling and sports betting, and increasing gambling on online platforms. This shift poses significant challenges, requiring a comprehensive approach to monitor and mitigate the negative consequences of this increase in online gambling caused by the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Catalano
- Centre for Biostatistics, Epidemiology, and Public Health, Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Orbassano, Turin, Italy; Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy.
| | - Lorenzo Milani
- Centre for Biostatistics, Epidemiology, and Public Health, Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Orbassano, Turin, Italy
| | - Matteo Franco
- Centre for Biostatistics, Epidemiology, and Public Health, Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Orbassano, Turin, Italy
| | - Federica Buscema
- Centre for Biostatistics, Epidemiology, and Public Health, Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Orbassano, Turin, Italy
| | - Ilenia Giommarini
- Centre for Biostatistics, Epidemiology, and Public Health, Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Orbassano, Turin, Italy
| | - Barbara Sodano
- Centre for Biostatistics, Epidemiology, and Public Health, Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Orbassano, Turin, Italy; Department of Statistics, Computer Science, Applications, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Winston Gilcrease
- Centre for Biostatistics, Epidemiology, and Public Health, Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Orbassano, Turin, Italy
| | - Luisa Mondo
- Unit of Epidemiology, Regional Health Service ASL TO3, Grugliasco, (TO), Italy
| | - Michele Marra
- Unit of Epidemiology, Regional Health Service ASL TO3, Grugliasco, (TO), Italy
| | - Chiara Di Girolamo
- Centre for Biostatistics, Epidemiology, and Public Health, Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Orbassano, Turin, Italy
| | - Antonella Bena
- Unit of Epidemiology, Regional Health Service ASL TO3, Grugliasco, (TO), Italy
| | - Fulvio Ricceri
- Centre for Biostatistics, Epidemiology, and Public Health, Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Orbassano, Turin, Italy
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2
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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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3
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Czernecka R, Wirkus T, Bühringer G, Kräplin A. Characteristics and prediction of risky gambling behaviour study: A study protocol. Int J Methods Psychiatr Res 2023; 33:e1995. [PMID: 37924509 PMCID: PMC10804259 DOI: 10.1002/mpr.1995] [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: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study protocol describes the RIGAB study, a prospective case-control-study assessing online sports betting behaviour and underlying risk factors for the development of gambling disorder (GD). It has two aims: (1) to characterise sports bettors concerning putative risk factors and their gambling behaviour, and (2) to predict the development of GD from these factors. METHODS At baseline, online sports bettors took part in an online survey comprising a GD screening (DSM-5), questions on gambling behaviour and on the putative risk factors emotion regulation, impulsivity, comorbidities, stress, and substance use. Participants were reinvited for a 1-year follow-up online survey. In a nested design, a subsample was invited in-person to take part in a cognitive-behavioural task battery and a clinical interview. RESULTS Of the initial 6568 online sports bettors invited, 607 participated at baseline (rate: 9.2%), 325 took part in the 1-year follow-up and 54 participated in the nested in-person assessment. CONCLUSION The RIGAB study combines different fields of GD studies: player tracking data and putative risk factors from self-report and behavioural tasks. The results of this study will support the development of preventive measures for participants of online gambling based on the combined findings from previously rather distinct research fields.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Anja Kräplin
- Technische Universität (TU) DresdenDresdenGermany
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4
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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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5
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Lischer S, Schwarz J, Wallimann H, Jeannot E, Mathys J. Motivating factors and barriers to help-seeking for casino gamblers: results from a survey in Swiss casinos. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1128291. [PMID: 37304436 PMCID: PMC10249729 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1128291] [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: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Gambling can have serious consequences for many aspects of a person's life. Yet relatively few people with gambling problems seek help. This study examines the extent to which exclusion from casino venues among other factors may act as a motivator for further help-seeking among casino gamblers (both landbased and remote) with at-risk or disordered gambling behavior. In addition, the barriers that prevent gamblers from accepting help are examined. Methods Gamblers from Swiss casinos completed a written questionnaire twice, at 6-month intervals. The questions included whether they had sought help in the past 6 months. Results For those with a SOGS-R rating of 1 or over (n = 173) at the second survey point, a difference in help-seeking was found between the excluded and non-excluded gamblers (p < .001), suggesting that exclusion may be a motivator for help-seeking. Reported differences in levels of debt (p = .006), recognition of gambling problems (p = .010) and severity of gambling-related problems (p = .004) can be taken to suggest that other motivating factors may also influence help-seeking behavior. With regard to the support sought, the most frequently used forms of support were specialized addiction counseling centers (39.5%), followed by self-help groups (21.1%) and remote counseling centers (10.5%). In terms of barriers, reasons relating to attitude, such as denial, appear to pose greater barriers than treatment-related concerns. Discussion From a public health perspective, an overarching strategy is required to increase the share of help-seekers among casino gamblers through targeted measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne Lischer
- Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Jürg Schwarz
- Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Hannes Wallimann
- Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Emilien Jeannot
- Centre Du Jeu Excessif, Addiction Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Institute of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine, Chemin de Mines, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Jacqueline Mathys
- Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts, Lucerne, Switzerland
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6
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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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7
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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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8
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Estimation of Behavioral Addiction Prevalence During COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. CURRENT ADDICTION REPORTS 2022; 9:486-517. [PMID: 36118286 PMCID: PMC9465150 DOI: 10.1007/s40429-022-00435-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of Review The COVID-19 pandemic changed people’s lifestyles and such changed lifestyles included the potential of increasing addictive behaviors. The present systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to estimate the prevalence of different behavioral addictions (i.e., internet addiction, smartphone addiction, gaming addiction, social media addiction, food addiction, exercise addiction, gambling addiction, and shopping addiction) both overall and separately. Recent Findings Four databases (PubMed, Scopus, ISI Web of Knowledge, and ProQuest) were searched. Peer-reviewed papers published in English between December 2019 and July 2022 were reviewed and analyzed. Search terms were selected using PECO-S criteria: population (no limitation in participants’ characteristics), exposure (COVID-19 pandemic), comparison (healthy populations), outcome (frequency or prevalence of behavioral addiction), and study design (observational study). A total of 94 studies with 237,657 participants from 40 different countries (mean age 25.02 years; 57.41% females). The overall prevalence of behavioral addiction irrespective of addiction type (after correcting for publication bias) was 11.1% (95% CI: 5.4 to 16.8%). The prevalence rates for each separate behavioral addiction (after correcting for publication bias) were 10.6% for internet addiction, 30.7% for smartphone addiction, 5.3% for gaming addiction, 15.1% for social media addiction, 21% for food addiction, 9.4% for sex addiction, 7% for exercise addiction, 7.2% for gambling addiction, and 7.2% for shopping addiction. In the lockdown periods, prevalence of food addiction, gaming addiction, and social media addiction was higher compared to non-lockdown periods. Smartphone and social media addiction was associated with methodological quality of studies (i.e., the higher the risk of boas, the higher the prevalence rate). Other associated factors of social media addiction were the percentage of female participants, mean age of participants, percentage of individuals using the internet in country, and developing status of country. The percentage of individuals in the population using the internet was associated with all the prevalence of behavioral addiction overall and the prevalence of sex addiction and gambling addiction. Gaming addiction prevalence was associated with data collection method (online vs. other methods) that is gaming addiction prevalence was much lower using online methods to collect the data. Summary Behavioral addictions appeared to be potential health issues during the COVID-19 pandemic. Healthcare providers and government authorities should foster some campaigns that assist people in coping with stress during COVID-19 pandemics to prevent them from developing behavioral addictions during COVID-19 and subsequent pandemics. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40429-022-00435-6.
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9
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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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10
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Cataldo I, Casonato E, Levari E, Negri A, Simonato P, Tomasi G, Branz G, Coppola A, Gianfranceschi P, Leoni E, Mistretta P, Stefani M, Vanzetta M, Franceschini A, Esposito G, Corazza O. Gambling at the time of COVID-19: Results from interviews in an Italian sample of gamblers. EMERGING TRENDS IN DRUGS, ADDICTIONS, AND HEALTH 2022; 2:100032. [PMID: 35128510 PMCID: PMC8806400 DOI: 10.1016/j.etdah.2022.100032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The coronavirus pandemic affected the life of those suffering from addictive behaviors often confined to prolonged periods of self-isolation. To explore the variation of symptoms related to gambling, 46 outpatients of the mental health services in the Trento Province were invited to take part in a phone interview at the start of the national lockdown. Although only 2.17% increased gambling activity during this period, half of the sample (50.00%) experienced irritability, mood fluctuation (43.48%) and anxiety (39.13%). Follow-up studies should assess modifications in their behaviors that occurred after the reopening of gambling venues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Cataldo
- Department of Psychology and Cognitive Science, University of Trento, Rovereto, Italy
| | - Eleonora Casonato
- Department of Psychology and Cognitive Science, University of Trento, Rovereto, Italy
| | - Ermelinda Levari
- Local Public Health Authority, Addiction Treatment Unit (SERD), Trento, Italy
| | - Attilio Negri
- School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, United Kingdom
| | - Pierluigi Simonato
- School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, United Kingdom
- Clinic "Parco dei Tigli", Padova, Teolo, Italy
| | - Giulia Tomasi
- Self-help mutual aid association "AMA", Trento, Italy
| | - Giovanna Branz
- Local Public Health Authority, Addiction Treatment Unit (SERD), Trento, Italy
| | - Aurora Coppola
- Local Public Health Authority, Addiction Treatment Unit (SERD), Trento, Italy
| | | | - Eva Leoni
- Local Public Health Authority, Addiction Treatment Unit (SERD), Trento, Italy
| | - Pietro Mistretta
- Local Public Health Authority, Addiction Treatment Unit (SERD), Trento, Italy
| | - Martina Stefani
- Local Public Health Authority, Addiction Treatment Unit (SERD), Trento, Italy
| | | | - Anna Franceschini
- Local Public Health Authority, Addiction Treatment Unit (SERD), Trento, Italy
| | - Gianluca Esposito
- Department of Psychology and Cognitive Science, University of Trento, Rovereto, Italy
- Psychology Program, School of Social Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Ornella Corazza
- Department of Psychology and Cognitive Science, University of Trento, Rovereto, Italy
- School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, United Kingdom
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11
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Gjoneska B, Potenza MN, Jones J, Corazza O, Hall N, Sales CMD, Grünblatt E, Martinotti G, Burkauskas J, Werling AM, Walitza S, Zohar J, Menchón JM, Király O, Chamberlain SR, Fineberg NA, Demetrovics Z. Problematic use of the internet during the COVID-19 pandemic: Good practices and mental health recommendations. Compr Psychiatry 2022; 112:152279. [PMID: 34700188 PMCID: PMC8529894 DOI: 10.1016/j.comppsych.2021.152279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and the accelerated spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus came jurisdictional limitations on mobility of citizens and distinct alterations in their daily routines. Confined to their homes, many people increased their overall internet use, with problematic use of the internet (PUI) becoming a potential reason for increased mental health concerns. Our narrative review summarizes information on the extent of PUI during the pandemic, by focusing on three types: online gaming, gambling and pornography viewing. We conclude by providing guidance for mental health professionals and those affected by PUI (with an outline of immediate research priorities and best therapeutic approaches), as well as for the general public (with an overview of safe and preventative practices).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marc N Potenza
- Department of Psychiatry and Child Study Centre, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA; Connecticut Mental Health Centre, New Haven, CT, USA; Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling, Wethersfield, CT, USA.
| | - Julia Jones
- Centre for Research in Public Health and Community Care, University of Hertfordshire, UK.
| | - Ornella Corazza
- Department of Clinical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, UK; Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy.
| | - Natalie Hall
- Centre for Health Services and Clinical Research, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK.
| | - Célia M D Sales
- Centre for Psychology, University of Porto, Portugal; Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, University of Porto, Portugal.
| | - 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 the ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Zurich Center for Integrative Human Physiology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Giovanni Martinotti
- Department of Clinical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, UK; Department of Neuroscience, Imaging, Clinical Sciences, University "Gabriele d'Annunzio", Chieti-Pescara, Italy.
| | - Julius Burkauskas
- Laboratory of Behavioral Medicine, Neuroscience Institute, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Palanga, Lithuania.
| | - Anna Maria Werling
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Psychiatric University Hospital Zurich, 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 the ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Zurich Center for Integrative Human Physiology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Joseph Zohar
- Sackler Medical School, Tel Aviv University, Chaim Sheba Medical Center Tel Hashomer, Tel Aviv, Israel.
| | - José M Menchón
- Department of Psychiatry, Bellvitge University Hospital-IDIBELL, University of Barcelona, Cibersam, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Orsolya Király
- Institute of Psychology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary.
| | - Samuel R Chamberlain
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK; Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK.
| | - Naomi A Fineberg
- University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK; Hertfordshire Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust, Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire, UK; University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, Cambridge, UK
| | - 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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12
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Brodeur M, Audette-Chapdelaine S, Savard AC, Kairouz S. Gambling and the COVID-19 pandemic: A scoping review. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2021; 111:110389. [PMID: 34146652 PMCID: PMC8643271 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2021.110389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2020] [Revised: 04/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The impact of COVID-19 on mental health is tremendous. Since the beginning of the pandemic, several actors have raised concerns about the impact of the pandemic on gambling. Many actors fear a switch to online gambling in the context of the closure of many land-based gambling activities due to the restrictions imposed by public health authorities, such as physical distancing and lockdowns. This switch is worrisome because online gambling is considered a high-risk game. In that context, we need to know more about the impacts of the pandemic on gambling. This scoping review aims to summarize the literature that addresses the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on gambling. To our knowledge, this is the first review to focus on this subject. METHODS An electronic literature search involving a strategy using keywords related to COVID-19 and gambling was conducted using MEDLINE, Academic Search Complete, CINAHL, PsychINFO, Social Works Abstract, and Socio Index databases on February 25th 2021. This search was combined with a manual search in Google Scholar. To be included, studies had to discuss gambling and COVID-19 as a primary theme, be written in English, and be published in a peer-reviewed journal. After collecting the information, we collated, summarized, and reported the results using narrative synthesis. RESULTS The search identified 181 articles. After the removal of duplicates and screening, 24 full-text articles were reviewed and included in this study: 14 original articles, 8 commentaries or editorials, and 2 protocols. Contrary to expectations, preliminary evidence suggested that gambling behavior often either decreased or stayed the same for most gamblers during the pandemic. However, for the minority who showed increased gambling behavior, there was frequently an association with problem gambling. CONCLUSION The available literature on COVID-19 and gambling is limited and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on gambling behavior and gambling problems is still unclear. Therefore, there is a need for more research on this topic, both qualitative and mixed methods studies, to better understand the impact of the pandemic on gambling. Considering the results, we need to be careful, particularly with problem gamblers and other subgroups of the population who seem to be more vulnerable to increased gambling habits during this pandemic period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magaly Brodeur
- Département de médecine de famille et de médecine d'urgence, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada.
| | - Sophie Audette-Chapdelaine
- Département de médecine de famille et de médecine d'urgence, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
| | - Annie-Claude Savard
- École de travail social et de criminologie, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, Canada
| | - Sylvia Kairouz
- Département de sociologie et d'anthropologie, Université Concordia, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has ushered the world into unforeseen circumstances, prompting the authorities to impose restrictions and cut back various events including many gambling avenues. Professional sports have been postponed, land casinos are closed, and social distancing has shut home games down. The present narrative overview has addressed the following changes in gambling behavior since the start of the pandemic: - a) Change in the number of gamblers and intensity of gambling b) differences among various types of gambling modalities (land-based, horse betting, casino, online). and transitioning between them. c) Psychosocial effects on gamblers owing to the shutdown of gambling avenues in the early phase of COVID-19 lockdown. It alludes to several survey studies conducted so far in Northern Europe (Sweden, UK, Italy), North America (Canada, USA), and Australia on the potential impact of the SARS-Cov2 pandemic on gambling figures. Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI) scale is used by most of the studies to demonstrate the severity among gamblers i.e., low-risk, high-risk, and problem gamblers respectively. The majority of studies are based on self-reported questionnaires, few tracked data from online gambling operators, and one study used revenue-based taxation of land-based and online gambling as its information source. The decline in the overall gambling activity attributable to the situational changes was predominant in a majority of surveys. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on gambling is diverse - possibly causing a reduction in current or future problems in some, but also promoting increased problematic gambling in others.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vishi Sachdeva
- Adesh Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Sucheta Sharma
- Punjab Institute of Medical Sciences, Jalandhar, Punjab, India
| | - Ashish Sarangi
- Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
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