Covid-19 and the suspension, relapse and continuation of casino gambling: Learning theories at work

Abstract

Casinos worldwide closed during COVID-19, forcing millions of gamblers to stop casino gambling temporarily or to migrate to online gambling platforms. Many returned to casino gambling once the casinos reopened. Using the qualitative method, this paper examines the return of gamblers to casinos through the lens of the learning theory of addiction. Addicted gamblers were forced to leave gambling owing to the closure of casinos. Though many gamblers found coping difficult, they saved money, experienced financial stability, and paid attention to family and work. Yet they became restless and returned when casinos reopened. Recovery was the main motive to return and continue gambling for those in heavy debt. Though gamblers were aware that regular gamblers never make money, they were happy to gamble again when casinos reopened and experienced satisfaction. This research supports learning theories, indicating that several social and psychological factors influence the suspension, relapse and continuation of gambling. Relapse and continuation are explained by operant conditioning, a system of rewards and punishments, and classical conditioning, which pairs the pleasure of activities with environmental cues leading to addiction. Based on qualitative interviews, this paper hypothesizes the reasons for the relapse and continuation of gambling through learning theories. The study established the significance of classical conditioning theory in explaining addictive behavior. While the results supported the role of reinforcement on adherence to gambling, no major shift to online gambling during lockdown was noticed. The paper also develops a testable model based on qualitative analysis of data.