Published in:
07-05-2024 | COVID-19
Betting on Uncertainty: A Review of Changes in Gambling and Substitute Addictive Behaviours During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors:
Lindsey A. Snaychuk, Jenna L. Vieira, Sophie G. Coelho, Maya C. Thulin, Aaron Palachi, Eliscia Siu-Lin Liang Sinclair, Hyoun S. Kim
Published in:
Current Addiction Reports
|
Issue 3/2024
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Abstract
Purpose of Review
This review synthesized the empirical literature on patterns and correlates of changes in gambling, including substitute addictive behaviours, during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Background
COVID-19 lockdowns limited access to certain gambling activities, potentially prompting some individuals to modify or substitute gambling behaviours by increasing engagement in another addictive behaviour to fulfill functions previously served by gambling.
Summary
A systematic literature search was conducted in August 2023. The search yielded 496 papers, of which 36 met eligibility criteria and were included in the present review. Findings generally supported overall decreases in gambling, although some studies found increases in specific gambling types. Correlates of change included problem gambling severity, substance use and psychological distress. Few studies examined addiction substitution, with mixed results. Findings extend upon previous reviews by including more recent empirical literature and assessing engagement in substitute gambling and other addictions behaviours during the pandemic.