Cards on the Table: The Huge Growth in Online Gambling During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Portugal

Abstract

In the words of the philosopher Seneca, work drives away the vices that come from idleness. The COVID-19 pandemic stopped the world, causing a disruption in the routine of millions of people. Many were faced with more free time or greater flexibility in organizing working hours combined with the absence of peer or managerial surveillance. This less scheduled but not carefree period promotes the search for leisure, pleasure, or something that temporarily removes insecurity and uncertainty. The consumption of psychoactive substances and the repetition of behaviours associated with short-term reward have a recognized role in this process.