Impact of the Pandemic on Gambling Behaviors in Quebec

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly altered gambling patterns among residents of Quebec. During the pandemic's peak, the closure of land-based gambling venues such as casinos, bingo halls, and sports betting shops led many to turn to online gambling as an alternative. A comprehensive study by Concordia University indicates that in 2021, approximately 15% to 20% of Quebecers engaged in online gambling, with over 5% trying it for the first time. Interestingly, about 15% of the population reported gambling online both before and during the pandemic, while a mere 1.4% reported ceasing gambling altogether.

The research, which analyzed a population survey of over 4,500 residents, included in-depth interviews with 96 individuals, revealing that online gambling nearly tripled between 2018 and 2021. For some, online gambling served as a way to compensate for the lack of other activities due to lockdown restrictions. Most participants maintained consistent gambling habits, though some increased their gambling activity or diversified their betting options. Notably, respondents who stopped gambling during this period cited restricted access to venues like casinos as a barrier, highlighting how accessibility influences gambling behavior.

The study also highlighted demographic trends, showing that two-thirds of new online gamblers were men, especially young adults aged 18-34, and men in their late 20s to early 40s. The motivators for increased gambling included boredom, isolation, stress relief, and the allure of quick monetary gains, especially for those experiencing income loss during the pandemic. Prior declining offline gambling trends shifted with the pandemic, and the legalization of sports betting in August 2021 further influenced gambling habits.

An unexpected finding was the surge in day trading activities, which share risk-taking elements with gambling and became popular in the pandemic's first year. Participants viewed trading as a strategic activity, although it often resulted in financial losses.

Kairouz emphasizes that online gambling remains largely unregulated and highly marketed, with a significant increase in revenue—up 171% for Espacejeux.com between 2020 and 2021—despite a rise in self-exclusion requests. She raises concerns about the lack of regulation and the extensive advertising that accompanies online gambling, comparing it to past bans on tobacco and cannabis advertising. This environment poses public health challenges, underscoring the need for more oversight to protect vulnerable populations.

Overall, the study underscores how pandemic conditions intensified online gambling behaviors among Quebecers, driven by social isolation, boredom, and easily accessible online platforms, highlighting critical areas for policy intervention and public health awareness.