How the Concordia Research Chair on Gambling and its Affiliates Protect Vulnerable Players

In today’s rapidly evolving landscape of gambling, where the accessibility and popularity of betting platforms are surging, protecting vulnerable players has never been more critical. The Concordia Research Chair on Gambling, led by Dr. Sylvia Kairouz, stands at the forefront of this important mission, aiming to mitigate the societal impacts of gambling addiction and empower individuals through rigorous research and community engagement.

The Complex Landscape of Gambling in Quebec

Gambling is a significant revenue stream for the Quebec government, second only to alcohol. In 2023, Loto-Québec generated nearly $3 billion from various gambling channels, including casinos, lotteries, and online betting. However, this financial success comes at a steep cost, as it can lead to addiction and associated social problems. Dr. Jeff Derevensky, director of the McGill International Centre for Youth Gambling Problems and High-Risk Behaviours, highlights the psychological dynamics at play, noting that intermittent reinforcement of gambling behavior can lead to persistent and problematic gambling habits.

The Role of the Concordia Research Chair on Gambling

Dr. Kairouz has held the Concordia Research Chair on Gambling since 2012 and has since revolutionized the study of gambling from a public health perspective. Historically, research in gambling focused heavily on individual psychology, neglecting broader social factors that contribute to gambling addiction. Kairouz’s approach seeks to highlight the systemic influences surrounding gambling, asserting that understanding the larger context is essential for effective intervention.

Under her leadership, the Chair has developed into a leading hub for gambling research, driving initiatives that examine the sociocultural determinants of gambling within diverse populations. Current projects include detailed studies on gambling behaviors in Kahnawake’s First Nation communities and the prevalence of video lottery terminals (VLTs), known for their speed and addictiveness, throughout Montreal.

Empowering Early-Career Researchers

The Concordia Research Chair not only serves as a research institution but also as a nurturing ground for early-career researchers like Dr. Adèle Morvannou. As a clinical psychologist, Morvannou emphasizes how the Chair has provided her with vital financial support that enabled her to study the unique motivations of women gamblers. Her work reveals critical distinctions between male and female gambling behaviors, indicating that women often gamble as a means of coping with stress or boredom, unlike men, who may seek thrill and competition.

The Intersection of Gender and Gambling

Morvannou’s research resonates deeply with broader societal expectations surrounding gender and gambling. While stigma affects all genders, women often face harsher judgments for their gambling activities due to entrenched stereotypes. The societal expectation for women to be caregivers can lead to additional scrutiny, especially when gambling takes precedence over family responsibilities. Understanding this gendered dynamic is crucial for developing targeted support systems and interventions.

Balancing Profit and Protection

In Quebec, gambling is tightly regulated by the Régie des alcools, des courses et des jeux, creating a paradox where the government must balance public protection against addiction with the financial benefits derived from a thriving gambling sector. Dr. Kairouz argues that current policies tend to prioritize profit, especially as Loto-Québec announces record financial results amid increasing online gambling activity.

The alarming rise of online gambling has heightened the urgency for effective safeguards. In response to this growing threat, researchers collaborate with public health officials to recommend and implement strategies designed to ensure responsible gaming practices.

Promoting Responsible Gambling and Community Health

One significant success story has been the recent decision by Loto-Québec to withdraw plans to place hundreds of VLTs near the Bell Centre, influenced by research showing potential risks to community health. Such collaborations underscore the importance of evidence-based practices in shaping gambling policies and promoting safer environments for players.

However, Dr. Kairouz argues for greater oversight, advocating for an independent regulatory body to monitor the gambling market and ensure compliance with health and safety standards. This regulatory structure could help protect vulnerable populations, particularly children living in low-income neighborhoods, from the dangers posed by the over-distribution of VLTs.

The Challenge of Digital Gambling

The rapid evolution of digital gambling presents significant challenges for researchers. Online platforms often blur the lines between gambling and entertainment, making it increasingly difficult to regulate and monitor player behavior. The pandemic has further accelerated this trend, as more players shifted to online platforms, highlighting the need for timely research and intervention.

As gambling technologies evolve, the researchers at the Chair strive to stay ahead of trends, collaborating with national and international teams to share insights and strategies. They recognize that a unified approach can amplify the impact of their findings and boost community awareness of responsible gambling.

Conclusion: Moving Forward Together

The work of the Concordia Research Chair on Gambling is a critical step toward safeguarding vulnerable players in an increasingly complex gambling landscape. By focusing on collaborative approaches and advocating for more robust regulations, researchers are not only enhancing the understanding of gambling but also driving effective change.

As gambling continues to evolve, it is essential to support the infrastructure that prioritizes public health and equitable access to gambling resources. The efforts of the Concordia team exemplify a commitment to transforming research insights into actionable policies, ultimately aiming to protect those at risk while fostering a healthier gambling environment for all.