Bristol Gamblers Turn to Online Platforms During COVID-19 Lockdown: A Study
The COVID-19 pandemic brought about significant changes in various aspects of people’s lives, and gambling habits were no exception. As the world went into lockdown, research conducted by the University of Bristol shed light on how regular gamblers in the UK turned to online platforms during the pandemic. This article explores the findings of the study, revealing the impact of the lockdown on gambling behaviors, with a particular focus on online gambling and its consequences. It also highlights the increased risks faced by vulnerable groups and the need for stricter regulations to protect consumers.
The Shift Towards Online Gambling
The University of Bristol’s study, published in the Journal of Gambling Studies, revealed that regular gamblers were more than six times more likely to gamble online during the COVID-19 lockdown compared to their pre-pandemic habits. The research utilized two online questionnaires during the first lockdown in 2020, surveying the same group of adults who had been part of the renowned Children of the 90s study, also known as the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC).
Gender and Gambling Habits
The study found that men were three times more likely than women to gamble regularly during the lockdown, with regular gambling defined as gambling more than once a week. This trend, however, was influenced by the fact that 70% of the respondents to the surveys were women. Drinking heavily, consuming more than six units of alcohol in one session (equivalent to more than three pints of beer) at least once a week, was strongly linked to regular gambling habits among both men and women.
Online Gambling Growth
The lockdown restrictions led to the closure of betting shops, which resulted in an overall decrease in gambling frequency. However, some forms of gambling witnessed a significant surge. Online gambling, including poker, bingo, and casino games, grew six-fold among regular gamblers. Even occasional gamblers were more than twice as likely to gamble online compared to before the pandemic.
Impact on Vulnerable Groups
The study also highlighted the impact of lockdown on vulnerable groups. Individuals who faced financial difficulties before the pandemic were more likely to turn to gambling during the lockdown. This exacerbation of inequalities and its effect on vulnerable groups is a cause for concern and requires a public health approach to minimize gambling-related harms.
Binge Drinking and Gambling
Of particular concern was the strong link between binge drinking and regular gambling. Both behaviors are addictive and can have serious health and social consequences. The ease of access to gambling through various online channels raises concerns about vulnerable groups getting caught in a destructive cycle.
Rise in Esports Gambling and Advertising
The study’s findings align with data from the Gambling Commission, which reported increased revenues in online gambling, especially on esports, during the lockdown. The suspension of live sporting events led to a surge in esports betting. Moreover, previous research has highlighted how children are increasingly exposed to esports gambling advertising on social media.
The Call for Stricter Regulations
With the shift of gambling habits to online platforms, vulnerable groups, including children and heavy drinkers, are at a higher risk of falling into addictive habits. As the temptation to gamble online is always present, stricter regulations are needed to protect consumers, especially the unwitting ones.
Conclusion
The University of Bristol’s study provides valuable insights into the changes in gambling behaviors during the COVID-19 lockdown. The significant increase in online gambling among regular and occasional gamblers calls for a more robust approach to ensure responsible gambling practices and protect vulnerable individuals from potential harm. Stricter regulations, especially concerning advertising and online access to gambling, are essential to safeguard consumers and prevent the emergence of addictive behaviors.
FAQs
- Did all forms of gambling decrease during the lockdown?
- No, while overall gambling frequency decreased due to the closure of betting shops, online gambling witnessed a significant surge.
- Who was more likely to gamble online during the lockdown?
- Regular gamblers, especially men, were more than six times more likely to gamble online compared to before the pandemic.
- What were the consequences of regular gambling during the lockdown?
- Regular gambling was strongly linked to binge drinking, and both behaviors can have serious health and social consequences.
- How did the lockdown impact vulnerable groups?
- Individuals facing financial difficulties before the pandemic were more likely to engage in gambling during the lockdown, exacerbating existing inequalities.
- What measures are suggested to address the rise of online gambling?
- Stricter regulations are needed to protect vulnerable groups and minimize the risks of addiction, particularly with regards to online advertising and access to gambling platforms.
