COMMITMENT OF INCOME TO ONLINE BETTING AND THE FINANCIAL SITUATION OF INDIVIDUALS IN A BORDER REGION: A STUDY IN FOZ DO IGUAÇU-PR

Abstract

The rise of online gambling in Brazil has drawn attention due to its potential impact on how people manage their finances, especially in a context of greater access to digital platforms and economic instability. This study sought to analyze how income allocated to this practice relates to the financial situation of individuals in the city of Foz do Iguaçu. The research adopted a quantitative approach, with exploratory and descriptive methodologies, a time frame between January and February 2026, a spatial focus on the municipality of Foz do Iguaçu, and the use of the survey method, through a structured questionnaire. The results show that most participants allocate a small portion of their income to gambling, indicating that this practice, in isolation, did not present itself as the main factor compromising their budget. Even so, when analyzing the set of responses, differences appeared between what individuals believe they control and what occurs in practice, especially regarding expense tracking, financial organization, and the formation of an emergency fund. Situations of default and difficulties in meeting essential expenses were also observed, even among those who claimed to maintain control over their finances. Although many do not perceive a direct impact of gambling on their ability to pay, evidence of indirect effects has emerged, such as increased credit use, the need to resort to third parties, and limited savings. Thus, the relationship between income allocated to gambling and financial situation proved to be more closely associated with how individuals organize and manage their resources over time.