Análise do perfil dos apostadores de jogos online: um estudo quantitativo na região metropolitana de Fortaleza

Abstract

This study analyzes the sociodemographic and behavioral profile of online gamblers in the Metropolitan Region of Fortaleza. The main objective is to identify the predominant characteristics, motivations, and financial performance of this audience. The adopted methodology is characterized as a quantitative, exploratory-descriptive approach, operationalized through an online survey applied to a sample of 141 local residents between November 2025 and January 2026. The results reveal a predominantly male, young (18 to 34 years old), and single profile, aligning with global trends. However, a significant divergence from the national average is identified regarding education and income, presenting a sample with a high level of higher education and superior purchasing power. It was observed that the primary motivation for betting is the search for financial return, often confused with investment, which corroborates cognitive biases described in Prospect Theory and overconfidence. Financially, it was found that the vast majority of participants accumulate losses. Attraction to platforms occurs predominantly via social networks and peer recommendations, although there is a rejection of digital influencers’ authority. It is concluded that a high educational level does not act as a protective factor against risk behavior, and cognitive dissonance is identified, wherein users recognize betting as a social problem but maintain the habitual practice. The study suggests the need for public policies on advertising regulation and social harm mitigation, since high educational level did not prove to be a protective factor.