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Awo LO. Promoting Adolescent Safer Gambling Through Self-Referent Counterfactual Thinking and Knowledge of Probabilistic Outcome. J Gambl Stud 2024:10.1007/s10899-024-10338-y. [PMID: 38995517 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-024-10338-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
Research have continued to advocate for various safer gambling strategies (SGs) to curb initiation and sustenance of problem gambling through the conceptualization and development of SG tools. The present study aims to extend this advocacy by examining cognitive processes that promote adolescent responsible gambling (RG) in Nigeria. Young adolescents (N = 962, Mage =16.06, SD = 4.12) recruited from a high school population responded to measures of self-referent counterfactual thinking (S-RCFT), knowledge of probabilistic outcomes (KPO), and RG. Hayes PROCESS macro analysis result showed that S-RCFTs and KPO were positively associated with RG. More importantly, it was revealed that KPO amplified the S-RCFT-RG link and provided a plausible pathway to understanding the effect of S-RCFT on RG. This calls for SG advocacies to encourage adolescent gamblers to hold themselves responsible for responsible gambling, and to understand that gambling wins randomly occur. The limitations of the study and recommendations are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larry O Awo
- Department of Social Sciences and Humanities, Federal Polytechnic of Oil and Gas, Bonny, Nigeria.
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2
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Fortier MÈ, Audette-Chapdelaine S, Auger AM, Brodeur M. Nudge theory and gambling: a scoping review. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1377183. [PMID: 38915754 PMCID: PMC11194330 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1377183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Gambling disorder (GD) is a pressing public health concern with significant societal costs. The recently developed nudge theory, which is rooted in behavioral economics, aims to influence the decision-making behaviors of individuals by implementing changes in the environment. Aim This scoping review aims to synthesize the literature on nudge theory as it relates to gambling. Methods This scoping review accords with the Arksey and O'Malley framework, as refined by Levac et al. It includes only articles from peer-reviewed journals that focus, as main themes, on both nudge theory and gambling. The final study selection includes six articles. Results The scoping review process led to studies explaining how (1) nudges aim to prod people toward healthier gambling choices, fostering the adoption of more responsible gambling practices, and (2) some gambling features, called dark nudges (or sludges), exploit and harm the decision-making processes of people who gamble. Conclusion This scoping review highlights the fact that many stakeholders are involved in the field of gambling, and that better cooperation between them would promote safer and more responsible gambling practices. Future research is also needed to empirically test nudges to develop a better understanding of their impact on those who gamble.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Ève Fortier
- Department of Psychology, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | | | - Anne-Marie Auger
- Department of Family and Emergency Medicine, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Magaly Brodeur
- Department of Family and Emergency Medicine, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
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3
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Hopfgartner N, Auer M, Santos T, Helic D, Griffiths MD. Cooling Off and the Effects of Mandatory Breaks in Online Gambling: A Large-Scale Real-World Study. Int J Ment Health Addict 2023:1-18. [PMID: 36688113 PMCID: PMC9844935 DOI: 10.1007/s11469-022-00996-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The prevention of problematic online gambling behavior is a topic of major interest for regulators, the gambling industry, and researchers. Many gambling operators approach this issue by using responsible gambling tools. Among such tools, mandatory play breaks are used to interrupt long online gambling sessions, providing "cooling off" periods for players to take a reflective "time out". The present study investigated the effects of mandatory play breaks in a large-scale experiment with 23,234 online gamblers engaging in more than 870,000,000 gambling transactions on Norsk Tipping's gambling platform over a 1-month period. The gamblers were randomly assigned to several intervention groups with varying duration of mandatory play breaks and one control group with Norsk Tipping's standard play break duration. More specifically, the study analyzed the relationship between the mandatory break received and the gambler's acceptance of this tool, the interaction patterns with the tool, and how quickly they started to gamble again, as well as post-intervention effects on gambling behavior. Results showed that gamblers who were treated with longer mandatory breaks (i) tended to take longer voluntary breaks, and (ii) interacted more frequently with the tool (for instance, by clicking the "logout" button). Furthermore, gamblers appeared to accept longer mandatory play breaks. However, only a fraction of post-intervention effects remained, and mainly only for gamblers who received a substantial number of long mandatory play breaks. Overall, the present study provides actionable insights for both researchers and the gambling industry to improve the effectiveness of mandatory play breaks as a responsible gambling tool.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niklas Hopfgartner
- Institute of Interactive Systems and Data Science, Graz University of Technology, Sandgasse 36/III, 8010 Graz, Austria
- neccton GmbH, Davidgasse 5, 7052 Müllendorf, Austria
| | - Michael Auer
- neccton GmbH, Davidgasse 5, 7052 Müllendorf, Austria
| | - Tiago Santos
- Institute of Interactive Systems and Data Science, Graz University of Technology, Sandgasse 36/III, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Denis Helic
- Institute of Interactive Systems and Data Science, Graz University of Technology, Sandgasse 36/III, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Mark D. Griffiths
- International Gaming Research Unit, Psychology Department, Nottingham Trent University, 50 Shakespeare Street, Nottingham, NG1 4FQ UK
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4
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Teichert T, Graf A, Swanton TB, Gainsbury SM. The joint influence of regulatory and social cues on consumer choice of gambling websites: preliminary evidence from a discrete choice experiment. INTERNATIONAL GAMBLING STUDIES 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/14459795.2021.1921011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Alexander Graf
- Marketing and Innovation, Universität Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Thomas B. Swanton
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, School of Psychology, Brain and Mind Centre, Gambling Treatment and Research Clinic, Camperdown, Australia
| | - Sally M. Gainsbury
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, School of Psychology, Brain and Mind Centre, Gambling Treatment and Research Clinic, Camperdown, Australia
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5
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McAuliffe WHB, Edson TC, Louderback ER, LaRaja A, LaPlante DA. Responsible product design to mitigate excessive gambling: A scoping review and z-curve analysis of replicability. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0249926. [PMID: 33878126 PMCID: PMC8057587 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0249926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 03/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Systematic mapping of evaluations of tools and interventions that are intended to mitigate risks for gambling harm. Design Scoping Review and z-curve analysis (which estimates the average replicability of a body of literature). Search strategy We searched 7 databases. We also examined reference lists of included studies, as well as papers that cited included studies. Included studies described a quantitative empirical assessment of a game-based (i.e., intrinsic to a specific gambling product) structural feature, user-directed tool, or regulatory initiative to promote responsible gambling. At least two research assistants independently performed screening and extracted study characteristics (e.g., study design and sample size). One author extracted statistics for the z-curve analysis. Results 86 studies met inclusion criteria. No tools or interventions had unambiguous evidence of efficacy, but some show promise, such as within-session breaks in play. Pre-registration of research hypotheses, methods, and analytic plans was absent until 2019, reflecting a recent embracement of open science practices. Published studies also inconsistently reported effect sizes and power analyses. The results of z-curve provide some evidence of publication bias, and suggest that the replicability of the responsible product design literature is uncertain but could be low. Conclusion Greater transparency and precision are paramount to improving the evidence base for responsible product design to mitigate gambling-related harm.
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Affiliation(s)
- William H. B. McAuliffe
- Division on Addiction Cambridge Health Alliance, A Harvard Medical School Teaching Hospital, Malden, MA, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Timothy C. Edson
- Division on Addiction Cambridge Health Alliance, A Harvard Medical School Teaching Hospital, Malden, MA, United States of America
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Eric R. Louderback
- Division on Addiction Cambridge Health Alliance, A Harvard Medical School Teaching Hospital, Malden, MA, United States of America
| | - Alexander LaRaja
- Division on Addiction Cambridge Health Alliance, A Harvard Medical School Teaching Hospital, Malden, MA, United States of America
| | - Debi A. LaPlante
- Division on Addiction Cambridge Health Alliance, A Harvard Medical School Teaching Hospital, Malden, MA, United States of America
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America
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6
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Bjørseth B, Simensen JO, Bjørnethun A, Griffiths MD, Erevik EK, Leino T, Pallesen S. The Effects of Responsible Gambling Pop-Up Messages on Gambling Behaviors and Cognitions: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Front Psychiatry 2021; 11:601800. [PMID: 33569015 PMCID: PMC7868407 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.601800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Pop-up messages utilized by gambling operators are normally presented to gamblers during gambling sessions in order to prevent excessive gambling and/or to help in the appraisal of maladaptive gambling cognitions. However, the effect of such messages on gambling behavior and gambling cognitions has not previously been synthesized quantitatively. Consequently, a meta-analysis estimating the efficacy of pop-up messages on gambling behavior and cognitions was conducted. A systematic literature search with no time constraints was performed on Web of Science, PsychInfo, Medline, PsychNET, and the Cochrane Library. Search terms included "gambling," "pop-up," "reminder," "warning message," and "dynamic message." Studies based on randomized controlled trials, quasi-experimental designs and pre-post studies reporting both pre- and post-pop-up data were included. Two authors independently extracted data using pre-defined fields including quality assessment. A total of 18 studies were included and data were synthesized using a random effects model estimating Hedges' g. The effects of pop-ups were g = 0.413 for cognitive measures (95% CI = 0.115-0.707) and g = 0.505 for behavioral measures (95% CI = 0.256-0.746). For both outcomes there was significant between-study heterogeneity which could not be explained by setting (laboratory vs. naturalistic) or sample (gambler vs. non-gamblers). It is concluded that pop-up messages provide moderate effects on gambling behavior and cognitions in the short-term and that such messages play an important role in the gambling operators' portfolio of responsible gambling tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Bjørseth
- Department of Psychosocial Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | | | - Aina Bjørnethun
- Department of Psychosocial Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Mark D. Griffiths
- International Gaming Research Unit, Psychology Department, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Eilin K. Erevik
- Department of Psychosocial Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Norwegian Competence Center for Gambling and Gaming Research, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Tony Leino
- Department of Psychosocial Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Ståle Pallesen
- Department of Psychosocial Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Norwegian Competence Center for Gambling and Gaming Research, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Optentia, The Vaal Triangle Campus of the North-West University, Vanderbijlpark, South Africa
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7
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Walker R. The Opportunity Cost of Compulsory Research Participation: Why Psychology Departments Should Abolish Involuntary Participant Pools. SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING ETHICS 2020; 26:2835-2847. [PMID: 32533447 DOI: 10.1007/s11948-020-00232-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Psychology departments often require undergraduates to participate in faculty and graduate research as part of their course or face a penalty. Involuntary participant pools (human subject pools) in which students are compulsorily enrolled are objectively coercive. Students have less autonomy than other research participants because they face a costly alternative task or the penalties that accompany failure to meet a course requirement if they choose not to participate. By contrast, other research participants are free to refuse consent without cost or penalty. Some researchers claim that the educational value of participation justifies the requirement. They treat coercion as a cost that can be outweighed by the benefits to students. This paper argues that such an approach is flawed because coercion is not like other costs and that educational value is inherently low relative to personal study or classroom time. The unethical nature of involuntary participation is best demonstrated with an opportunity cost analysis. This shows that students are forced to sacrifice higher value alternatives that they have paid to do and undertake a lower value activity that principally benefits others. Faculty have a conflict of interest as they are the beneficiaries of student coercion in their role as researchers and responsible for student achievement in their role as teachers. Voluntary participant pools can resolve this conflict but at the cost of reducing the supply of participants. A change in departmental research conduct is required to restore the autonomy of students who are competent adults and not legitimate subjects of paternalism when it comes to research participation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Walker
- Philosophy Programme, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand.
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8
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Energy drink intake is associated with insomnia and decreased daytime functioning in young adult females. Public Health Nutr 2020; 24:1328-1337. [PMID: 32723415 DOI: 10.1017/s1368980020001652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the association between energy drink (ED) use and sleep-related disturbances in a population-based sample of young adults from the Raine Study. DESIGN Analysis of cross-sectional data obtained from self-administered questionnaires to assess ED use and sleep disturbance (Epworth Sleepiness Scale, Functional Outcomes of Sleep Questionnaire (FOSQ-10) and the Pittsburgh Sleep Symptoms Questionnaire-Insomnia (PSSQ-I)). Regression modelling was used to estimate the effect of ED use on sleep disturbances. All models adjusted for various potential confounders. SETTING Western Australia. PARTICIPANTS Males and females, aged 22 years, from Raine Study Gen2-22 year follow-up. RESULTS Of the 1115 participants, 66 % were never/rare users (i.e. <once/month) of ED, 17·0 % were occasional users (i.e. >once/month to <once/week) and 17 % were frequent users (≥once/week). Compared with females, a greater proportion of males used ED occasionally (19 % v. 15 %) or frequently (24 % v. 11 %). Among females, frequent ED users experienced significantly higher symptoms of daytime sleepiness (FOSQ-10: β = 0·93, 95 % CI 0·32, 1·54, P = 0·003) and were five times more likely to experience insomnia (PSSQ-I: OR = 5·10, 95 % CI 1·81, 14·35, P = 0·002) compared with never/rare users. No significant associations were observed in males for any sleep outcomes. CONCLUSIONS We found a positive association between ED use and sleep disturbances in young adult females. Given the importance of sleep for overall health, and ever-increasing ED use, intervention strategies are needed to curb ED use in young adults, particularly females. Further research is needed to determine causation and elucidate reasons for gender-specific findings.
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9
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Thomas J, McGrath DS, Dechant K. Similar motives? The relationship between reasons for drinking and gambling in a population sample. INTERNATIONAL GAMBLING STUDIES 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/14459795.2020.1746378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jasmine Thomas
- Liquor, Gaming and Cannabis Authority of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
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10
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Sanscartier MD, Edgerton JD, Keough MT. Attitudes towards gambling in a Canadian university sample of young adults. INTERNATIONAL GAMBLING STUDIES 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/14459795.2019.1649448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Jason D. Edgerton
- Department of Sociology and Criminology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
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11
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McGivern P, Hussain Z, Lipka S, Stupple E. The impact of pop-up warning messages of losses on expenditure in a simulated game of online roulette: a pilot study. BMC Public Health 2019; 19:822. [PMID: 31242890 PMCID: PMC6595584 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-019-7191-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2018] [Accepted: 06/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background ‘Pop-up’ warning messages have potential as a Responsible Gambling tool, but many warning messages in the literature are generic. The present study simulated digital roulette to compare the effectiveness of expenditure-specific, generic and control messages, during online roulette. Methods Forty-five casual gamblers participated in a laboratory setting. Gambles were ‘rigged’ such that participants suffered a net loss. Total ‘play money’ wagers from individual bets after the presentation of the messages were measured. Results Expenditure-specific warning messages demonstrated significant reductions in wager amounts compared with other message types - Generic (p = .035) and Control messages (p < .001). No significant differences were found between Generic and Control messages (p > .05). Thus expenditure-specific warning messages about current losses were more effective than generic messages for reducing expenditure. Conclusions Expenditure-specific warning messages exhibit potential for ameliorating potentially harmful gambling behaviour. Expenditure-specific messages should be tested in a broader range of gambling contexts to examine their generalizability and potential for implementation in the gambling industry.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zaheer Hussain
- University of Derby, Derby, UK. .,School of Human Sciences, University of Derby, Kedleston Road, Derby, DE22 1GB, UK.
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12
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Bonnaire C, Barrault S. Jeux de hasard et d’argent en ligne : quelles spécificités en matière de réduction des risques ? PRAT PSYCHOL 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.prps.2018.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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13
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Kim HS, Rash CL, McGrath DS. The dishonest gambler: Low HEXACO honesty-humility and gambling severity in a community sample of gamblers. Personal Ment Health 2018; 12:355-364. [PMID: 30203924 DOI: 10.1002/pmh.1433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2018] [Revised: 06/22/2018] [Accepted: 08/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Personality dimensions have been found to be important in understanding the aetiology of disordered gambling. While the majority of research has focused on the Five-Factor Model of personality, recent empirical evidence also indicated that the honesty-humility factor of the HEXACO personality model may be a key personality correlate of gambling behaviour. In the present research, we extend the understanding between personality and gambling severity by further assessing whether HEXACO dimensions are associated with both current gambling status and gambling severity in a community-recruited sample of gamblers (N = 427). In addition, we examined whether motivations to engage in gambling (enhancement, coping, social and financial) mediated the relationship between personality and gambling severity on the Problem Gambling Severity Index. Demographic covariates were controlled for in our analyses. The results indicate that honesty-humility was the only personality dimension that significantly predicted gambling status (non-gamblers vs. current gamblers). In addition, lower scores on honesty-humility, conscientiousness and openness were significantly associated with gambling severity. Lastly, coping motives were the only significant mediator in the relationship between honesty-humility and increased gambling severity. The results offer further support to the notion that honesty-humility may be an especially pertinent personality dimension in understanding the aetiology of disordered gambling. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyoun S Kim
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, AB, Canada, T2N 1N4
| | - Christina L Rash
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, AB, Canada, T2N 1N4
| | - Daniel S McGrath
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, AB, Canada, T2N 1N4
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Abstract
Motivational models have been shown to usefully describe reasons for engaging in addictive behaviors including gambling disorder. Although most scales designed to measure motives have been derived statistically, self-generated open-ended responses have also shown utility for identifying unique motives for gambling. While the motivational structure for gambling disorder has been extensively explored, there has been a paucity of research examining motives for choosing not to gamble. This is not the case for other addictive behaviors such as alcohol use where motives for abstaining from drinking have been well defined. The primary goal of this study was to qualitatively explore and identify motives for not gambling in a sample of young adult non-gamblers using open-ended responses. A sample (N = 196) of undergraduate current non-gamblers, defined as no gambling activity over the previous 12 months, completed a series of questionnaires on demographics, gambling behavior, and alcohol consumption. Furthermore, they were asked to provide their top three reasons for not gambling in rank order. The results revealed eight specific motives for why participants chose not to gamble: 'financial reasons and risk aversion'; 'disinterest and other priorities'; 'personal and religious convictions'; 'addiction concerns'; 'influence of others' values'; 'awareness of the odds'; 'lack of access, opportunity, or skill'; and 'emotional distress'. Personal and religious convictions reasons were also related to lifetime non-drinking, suggesting that these motives are associated with decreased addictive behaviors in general. Ultimately, these results may help to inform the design of prevention strategies for gambling disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina L Rash
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Administration Building, Calgary, AB, T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Daniel S McGrath
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Administration Building, Calgary, AB, T2N 1N4, Canada.
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15
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McGrath DS, Neilson T, Lee K, Rash CL, Rad M. Associations between the HEXACO model of personality and gambling involvement, motivations to gamble, and gambling severity in young adult gamblers. J Behav Addict 2018; 7:392-400. [PMID: 29846096 PMCID: PMC6174587 DOI: 10.1556/2006.7.2018.29] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and aims Substantial research has examined the role of personality in disordered gambling. The predominant model in this work has been the five-factor model (FFM) of personality. In this study, we examined the personality correlates of gambling engagement and gambling severity using a six-dimensional framework known as the HEXACO model of personality, which incorporates FFM characteristics with the addition of honesty-humility. In addition, the potential mediating role of gambling motives in the personality and gambling severity relationship was explored. Methods A sample of undergraduate gamblers (n = 183) and non-gamblers (n = 143) completed self-report measures of the Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI) and the Gambling Motives Questionnaire-Financial, as well as self- and observer report forms of the HEXACO-100. Results Logistic regression results revealed that scores on honesty-humility were positively associated with non-gambling over gambling status. Furthermore, it was also found that honesty-humility, agreeableness, and conscientiousness were each uniquely associated with PGSI severity scores. The results of the mediational analyses suggest that each personality factor has different gambling motivational paths leading to PGSI gambling severity. Discussion and conclusions The findings of this study contribute to the literature on behavioral addictions by providing an increased understanding of individual personality factors associated with likelihood of gambling, overall gambling severity, and gambling motives. Ultimately, these findings suggest that the honesty-humility dimension may be a target for the prevention efforts against problematic gambling outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel S. McGrath
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada,Corresponding author: Dr. Daniel S. McGrath; Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, 2500 University Dr. NW, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada; Phone: +1 403 220 7268; Fax: +1 403 282 8249; E-mail:
| | - Tessa Neilson
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Kibeom Lee
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | | | - Mandana Rad
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
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16
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Rash CL, Kim HS, Hodgins DC, McGrath DS. Comparing undergraduate and community-recruited adult non-gamblers' motives for not gambling: Do they differ? Addict Behav 2018; 76:41-44. [PMID: 28746883 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2017.07.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2017] [Revised: 07/15/2017] [Accepted: 07/17/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The field of gambling studies has extensively focused on isolating risk factors for developing a gambling disorder. Conversely, little attention has been paid to identifying protective factors against gambling disorder among people who choose to not gamble at all. Moreover, the limited number of studies that have focused on non-gamblers have neglected to differentiate current from lifetime non-gamblers. The purpose of the present study was to examine motives for not gambling among a diverse sample of adult lifetime non-gamblers recruited from the community and to compare these motives to an undergraduate student sample of non-gamblers from a previous study. Participants consisted of 219 lifetime non-gamblers (45.2% male) from the United States recruited via Amazon's Mechanical Turk. The previously recruited sample consisted of Canadian undergraduate students (n=196). Eight distinct categories of motivations for not gambling were identified in the sample of adult community non-gamblers, which corresponded closely with previous findings from the student sample. However, comparisons between the two samples revealed that adult lifetime non-gamblers were more likely to provide financial motives as reasons for not gambling. Whereas, the student sample was more likely to mention disinterest and the influence of others as reasons to avoid gambling. Results suggest that the choice not to gamble among lifetime non-gamblers may reflect a more conscious, values-based decision when compared to undergraduate non-gamblers.
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17
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Abarbanel B. Commentary on Delfabbro & King’s (2017) ‘Gambling is Not a Capitalist Conspiracy’. INTERNATIONAL GAMBLING STUDIES 2017. [DOI: 10.1080/14459795.2017.1316416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Brett Abarbanel
- Director of Research, International Gaming Institute, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, USA
- Research Scientist, UCLA Gambling Studies Program, University of California, Los Angeles, USA
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18
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Harris A, Griffiths MD. A Critical Review of the Harm-Minimisation Tools Available for Electronic Gambling. J Gambl Stud 2017; 33:187-221. [PMID: 27289237 PMCID: PMC5323476 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-016-9624-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The increasing sophistication of gambling products afforded by electronic technologies facilitates increased accessibility to gambling, as well as encouraging rapid and continuous play. This poses several challenges from a responsible gambling perspective, in terms of facilitating player self-awareness and self-control. The same technological advancements in gambling that may facilitate a loss of control may also be used to provide responsible gambling tools and solutions to reduce gambling-related harm. Indeed, several harm-minimisation strategies have been devised that aim to facilitate self-awareness and self-control within a gambling session. Such strategies include the use of breaks in play, ‘pop-up’ messaging, limit setting, and behavioural tracking. The present paper reviews the theoretical argument underpinning the application of specific harm-minimisation tools, as well as providing one of the first critical reviews of the empirical research assessing their efficacy, in terms of influencing gambling cognitions and behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Harris
- International Gaming Research Unit, Psychology Division, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK.
| | - Mark D Griffiths
- International Gaming Research Unit, Psychology Division, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK
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Blaszczynski A, Cowley E, Anthony C, Hinsley K. Breaks in Play: Do They Achieve Intended Aims? J Gambl Stud 2017; 32:789-800. [PMID: 26275785 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-015-9565-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Breaks in play represent a responsible gambling strategy designed to disrupt states of dissociation and enhance the likelihood of drawing attention to a player's session behaviour and expenditure with respect to time and money. The aim of the break in play is to motivate the player to modify or cease gambling so the activity remains within affordable levels. The aim of this study was to investigate whether imposed breaks in play in the absence of accompanying warning messages were effective in reducing cravings. Participants (141 university students) were randomly allocated to one of three conditions: 15 min computer simulated Black Jack play followed by no break, a 3 or 8 min break in play. Participants were administered a battery of measures to assess problem gambling card play, cravings, and dissociation to assess the effects of length of break on cravings. Results indicated that cravings increased rather than decreased with imposed breaks in play, and that the strength of cravings were higher following the eight- compared to 3-min break. It was concluded that breaks in play in isolation might produce counterproductive, unintended, and even perverse effects. The policy implications for responsible gambling strategies is that breaks in play ought to be accompanied with warning and/or personal appraisal messages if optimal effects in reducing within session gambling expenditure are to be achieved.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elizabeth Cowley
- The University of Sydney Business School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Christina Anthony
- The University of Sydney Business School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Kate Hinsley
- School of Psychology (A19), University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
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20
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Mishra S, Carleton RN. Use of online crowdsourcing platforms for gambling research. INTERNATIONAL GAMBLING STUDIES 2017. [DOI: 10.1080/14459795.2017.1284250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sandeep Mishra
- Faculty of Business Administration, University of Regina, Regina, Canada
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21
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James RJE, O'Malley C, Tunney RJ. Understanding the psychology of mobile gambling: A behavioural synthesis. Br J Psychol 2016; 108:608-625. [PMID: 27753063 PMCID: PMC5516195 DOI: 10.1111/bjop.12226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2016] [Revised: 08/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
This manuscript reviews the extant literature on key issues related to mobile gambling and considers whether the potential risks of harm emerging from this platform are driven by pre‐existing comorbidities or by psychological processes unique to mobile gambling. We propose an account based on associative learning that suggests this form of gambling is likely to show distinctive features compared with other gambling technologies. Smartphones are a rapidly growing platform on which individuals can gamble using specifically designed applications, adapted websites or text messaging. This review considers how mobile phone use interacts with psychological processes relevant to gambling, the games users are likely to play on smartphones, and the interactions afforded by smartphones. Our interpretation of the evidence is that the schedules of reinforcement found in gambling interact with the ways in which people tend to use smartphones that may expedite the acquisition of maladaptive learned behaviours such as problem gambling. This account is consistent with existing theories and frameworks of problem gambling and has relevance to other forms of mobile phone use.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Claire O'Malley
- School of Psychology, University of Nottingham, UK.,School of Psychology, University of Nottingham Malaysia Campus, Semenyih, Malaysia
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22
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Gainsbury SM, Delfabbro P, King DL, Hing N. An Exploratory Study of Gambling Operators' Use of Social Media and the Latent Messages Conveyed. J Gambl Stud 2016; 32:125-41. [PMID: 25644444 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-015-9525-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Advertisements for gambling products have historically been restricted due to their potential to normalize gambling and contribute to excessive gambling behaviours among vulnerable populations. However, social media enables gambling operators to promote products and brands with fewer constraints than in traditional forms of media. This study investigated how social media is used by gambling operators to promote gambling activities including an analysis of the latent messages that are conveyed. A representative sample of major land-based and online gambling venues and operators, including casinos, clubs, hotels, lottery and wagering operators (n = 101), was obtained. Websites and social media profiles of gambling operators were audited to investigate the types of social media used, content of promotions, and prevalence of responsible gambling messaging. The results showed that Facebook and Twitter were the dominant platforms used, most commonly by casinos and online wagering operators. A key finding was that online gambling operators included gambling content in conjunction with related news and events, as well as unrelated content, as way of normalizing gambling within a broader social context. Unlike land-based gambling promotions, responsible gambling information tended not to feature in operators' posts and profiles. The key messages propagated in social media gambling promotions were positively framed, and tended to encourage gambling using a range of cross-promotional tactics to emphasize the winning aspect of gambling. The implications of freely accessible and pervasive gambling promotions via social media are discussed with respect to the general community as well as vulnerable populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sally M Gainsbury
- Centre for Gambling Education and Research, Southern Cross University, PO Box 157, Lismore, NSW, 2480, Australia.
| | - Paul Delfabbro
- School of Psychology, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Daniel L King
- School of Psychology, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Nerilee Hing
- Centre for Gambling Education and Research, Southern Cross University, PO Box 157, Lismore, NSW, 2480, Australia
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Hing N, Russell AMT, Gainsbury SM, Nuske E. The Public Stigma of Problem Gambling: Its Nature and Relative Intensity Compared to Other Health Conditions. J Gambl Stud 2016; 32:847-64. [PMID: 26487344 PMCID: PMC4993796 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-015-9580-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Problem gambling attracts considerable public stigma, with deleterious effects on mental health and use of healthcare services amongst those affected. However, no research has examined the extent of stigma towards problem gambling within the general population. This study aimed to examine the stigma-related dimensions of problem gambling as perceived by the general public compared to other health conditions, and determine whether the publicly perceived dimensions of problem gambling predict its stigmatisation. A sample of 2000 Australian adults was surveyed, weighted to be representative of the state population by gender, age and location. Based on vignettes, the online survey measured perceived origin, peril, concealability, course and disruptiveness of problem gambling and four other health conditions, and desired social distance from each. Problem gambling was perceived as caused mainly by stressful life circumstances, and highly disruptive, recoverable and noticeable, but not particularly perilous. Respondents stigmatised problem gambling more than sub-clinical distress and recreational gambling, but less than alcohol use disorder and schizophrenia. Predictors of stronger stigma towards problem gambling were perceptions it is caused by bad character, is perilous, non-recoverable, disruptive and noticeable, but not due to stressful life circumstances, genetic/inherited problem, or chemical imbalance in the brain. This new foundational knowledge can advance understanding and reduction of problem gambling stigma through countering inaccurate perceptions that problem gambling is caused by bad character, that people with gambling problems are likely to be violent to other people, and that people cannot recover from problem gambling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nerilee Hing
- Centre for Gambling Education and Research, Southern Cross University, PO Box 157, Lismore, NSW, 2480, Australia.
| | - Alex M T Russell
- Centre for Gambling Education and Research, Southern Cross University, PO Box 157, Lismore, NSW, 2480, Australia
| | - Sally M Gainsbury
- Centre for Gambling Education and Research, Southern Cross University, PO Box 157, Lismore, NSW, 2480, Australia
| | - Elaine Nuske
- Centre for Gambling Education and Research, Southern Cross University, PO Box 157, Lismore, NSW, 2480, Australia
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24
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Taylor LF, Macaskill AC, Hunt MJ. Realistic Free-Spins Features Increase Preference for Slot Machines. J Gambl Stud 2016; 33:555-577. [DOI: 10.1007/s10899-016-9630-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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25
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Kim HS, Dobson KS, Hodgins DC. Funding of Gambling Research: Ethical Issues, Potential Benefit and Guidelines. JOURNAL OF GAMBLING ISSUES 2016. [DOI: 10.4309/jgi.2016.32.7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
There has been an unprecedented growth of legalized gambling opportunities in Canada over the past two decades, partly to generate revenues without raising taxes. Unfortunately, for 2-3% of the Canadian population, gambling can become disordered (i.e. develop into a gambling addiction). To help attenuate the harms and prevalence of disordered gambling, all provincial governments earmark a portion of gambling revenues for the prevention, treatment and research into disordered gambling. However, the field of gambling studies has recently come under criticism in the way research is conducted. At the forefront of the criticism is the issue of accepting funding from the gambling industry. We provide an overview of the ethical considerations, potential ethical issues, and the possible benefits of accepting such funding. The aim of the present paper is not to argue for or against accepting industry funding, but rather to delineate the potential ethical issues and benefits related to that acceptance. More importantly, we provide a summary of best practice ethical guidelines, and recommendations to guide in the ethical decision making process in accepting or declining funding from gambling industry. To this end, we use the Canadian Code of Ethics for Psychologists as a framework in which to situate our guidelines and recommendations. Given that Canadian researchers have a long history and continue to contribute valuable knowledge in the field of gambling studies, it is of important for gambling researchers to be aware of the ethical considerations and issues related to funding from gambling industry.
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Kim HS, Wohl MJA, Gupta R, Derevensky J. From the mouths of social media users: A focus group study exploring the social casino gaming-online gambling link. J Behav Addict 2016; 5:115-121. [PMID: 28092197 PMCID: PMC5322989 DOI: 10.1556/2006.5.2016.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and aims The potential link between social casino gaming and online gambling has raised considerable concerns among clinicians, researchers and policy makers. Unfortunately, however, there is a paucity of research examining this potential link, especially among young adults. This represents a significant gap given young adults are frequently exposed to and are players of social casino games. Methods To better understand the potential link between social casino games and online gambling, we conducted three focus groups (N = 30) at two large Canadian Universities with college students who were avid social media users (who are regularly exposed to social casino games). Results Many participants spontaneously mentioned that social casino games were a great opportunity to build gambling skills before playing for real money. Importantly, some participants expressed a belief that there is a direct progression from social casino gaming to online gambling. Conversely, others believed the transition to online gambling depended on a person's personality, rather than mere exposure to social casino games. While many young adults in our focus groups felt immune to the effects of social casino games, there was a general consensus that social casino games may facilitate the transition to online gambling among younger teenagers (i.e., 12-14 yr olds), due to the ease of accessibility and early exposure. Discussion The results of the present research point to the need for more study on the effects of social casino gambling as well as a discussion concerning regulation of social casino games in order to minimize their potential risks.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michael J. A. Wohl
- Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada,Corresponding author: Dr. Michael J. A. Wohl; Department of Psychology, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Drive, B550 Loeb Building, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1S 5B6; E-mail:
| | - Rina Gupta
- McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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28
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Battista SR, MacKinnon SP, Sherry SB, Barrett SP, MacNevin PD, Stewart SH. Does Alcohol Reduce Social Anxiety in Daily Life? A 22-Day Experience Sampling Study. JOURNAL OF SOCIAL AND CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY 2015. [DOI: 10.1521/jscp.2015.34.6.508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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29
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Shen Y, Kairouz S, Nadeau L, Robillard C. Comparing problem gamblers with moderate-risk gamblers in a sample of university students. J Behav Addict 2015; 4:53-9. [PMID: 26014673 PMCID: PMC4500885 DOI: 10.1556/2006.4.2015.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS In an effort to provide further empirical evidence of meaningful differences, this study explores, in a student population, the distinctions in gambling behavioral patterns and specific associated problems of two levels of gambling severity by comparing problem gamblers (PG) and moderate-risk gamblers (MR) as defined by the score on the Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI; MR: 3-7; PG: 8 and more). METHODS The study sample included 2,139 undergraduate students (male = 800, mean age = 22.6) who completed the PGSI and questionnaires on associated problems. RESULTS Results show that problem gamblers engage massively and more diversely in gambling activities, more often and in a greater variety of locations, than moderate-risk gamblers. In addition, important differences have been observed between moderate-risk and problem gamblers in terms of expenditures and accumulated debt. In regards to the associated problems, compared to moderate-risk gamblers, problem gamblers had an increased reported psychological distress, daily smoking, and possible alcohol dependence. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS The severity of gambling and associated problems found in problem gamblers is significantly different from moderate-risk gamblers, when examined in a student population, to reiterate caution against the amalgamation of these groups in future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Shen
- CSSS Lucille-Teasdale, Clinique-réseau intégrée Maisonneuve, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Sylvia Kairouz
- Research Chair on Gambling, Department of Sociology and Anthropology, Concordia University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada,* Corresponding authors: Sylvia Kairouz and Chantal Robillard; Research Chair on Gambling, Department of Sociology and Anthropology, Concordia University, 1455 de Maisonneuve West, Montreal, Quebec, Canada, H3G 1M8; Phone: 514-848-2424; Fax: 514-848-4539; E-mails: (SK); (CR)
| | - Louise Nadeau
- Department of Psychology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Chantal Robillard
- Research Chair on Gambling, Department of Sociology and Anthropology, Concordia University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada,* Corresponding authors: Sylvia Kairouz and Chantal Robillard; Research Chair on Gambling, Department of Sociology and Anthropology, Concordia University, 1455 de Maisonneuve West, Montreal, Quebec, Canada, H3G 1M8; Phone: 514-848-2424; Fax: 514-848-4539; E-mails: (SK); (CR)
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30
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Gainsbury S, Aro D, Ball D, Tobar C, Russell A. Determining optimal placement for pop-up messages: evaluation of a live trial of dynamic warning messages for electronic gaming machines. INTERNATIONAL GAMBLING STUDIES 2015. [DOI: 10.1080/14459795.2014.1000358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Calderwood KA, Wellington WJ. Using Roadside Billboard Posters to Increase Admission Rates to Problem Gambling Services: Reflections on Failure. Health Promot Pract 2015; 16:510-22. [PMID: 25586130 DOI: 10.1177/1524839914566455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Based on the stimulus-response model of advertising, this study sought to increase admission rates to a local problem gambling service (PGS) in Windsor, Ontario, Canada, by adding a series of locally based 10 foot by 20 foot roadside billboard posters to PGS's existing communications tools for a 24-week period. Using proof of performance reports, a pre-post survey of new callers to PGS, a website visit counter, and a media awareness survey, the findings showed that at least some individuals were influenced by billboard exposure, but admission rates continued to decline during the billboard campaign period. While one possible explanation for the communications failure was that the whole PGS communications campaign was below the minimal threshold for communications perception, another possible explanation is that the stimulus-response model of advertising used may not have been appropriate for such advertising that targets behavior change. Reflections on using an information-processing model instead of a stimulus-response model, and considerations of a two-step flow of communication, are provided. Recommendations are made regarding matching communications messages to stages of behavior change, use of online promotion, and strategies for future research.
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Building it better: Applying human–computer interaction and persuasive system design principles to a monetary limit tool improves responsible gambling. COMPUTERS IN HUMAN BEHAVIOR 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2014.04.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Chasing losses in online poker and casino games: characteristics and game play of Internet gamblers at risk of disordered gambling. Psychiatry Res 2014; 217:220-5. [PMID: 24746392 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2014.03.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2013] [Revised: 01/09/2014] [Accepted: 03/27/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Disordered Internet gambling is a psychological disorder that represents an important public health issue due to the increase in highly available and conveniently accessible Internet gambling sites. Chasing losses is one of the few observable markers of at-risk and problem gambling that may be used to detect early signs of disordered Internet gambling. This study examined loss chasing behaviour in a sample of Internet casino and poker players and the socio-demographic variables, irrational beliefs, and gambling behaviours associated with chasing losses. An online survey was completed by 10,838 Internet gamblers (58% male) from 96 countries. The results showed that Internet casino players had a greater tendency to report chasing losses than poker players and gamblers who reported chasing losses were more likely to hold irrational beliefs about gambling and spend more time and money gambling than those who reported that they were unaffected by previous losses. Gamblers who played for excitement and to win money were more likely to report chasing losses. This study is one of the largest ever studies of Internet gamblers and the results are highly significant as they provide insight into the characteristics and behaviours of gamblers using this mode of access.
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Kim HS, Wohl MJA, Stewart MJ, Sztainert T, Gainsbury SM. Limit your time, gamble responsibly: setting a time limit (via pop-up message) on an electronic gaming machine reduces time on device. INTERNATIONAL GAMBLING STUDIES 2014. [DOI: 10.1080/14459795.2014.910244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Marmurek HHC, Switzer J, D’Alvise J. A comparison of university student and community gamblers: Motivations, impulsivity, and gambling cognitions. J Behav Addict 2014; 3:54-64. [PMID: 25215214 PMCID: PMC4117282 DOI: 10.1556/jba.3.2014.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2013] [Revised: 11/04/2013] [Accepted: 11/09/2013] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS The present study tested whether the associations among motivational, cognitive, and personality correlates of problem gambling severity differed across university student gamblers (n = 123) and gamblers in the general adult community (n = 113). METHODS The participants completed a survey that included standardized measures of gambling motivation, gambling related cognitions, and impulsivity. The survey also asked participants to report the forms of gambling in which they engaged to test whether gambling involvement (number of different forms of gambling) was related to problem gambling severity. After completing the survey, participants played roulette online to examine whether betting patterns adhered to the gambler's fallacy. RESULTS Gambling involvement was significantly related to problem gambling severity for the community sample but not for the student sample. A logistic regression analysis that tested the involvement, motivation, impulsivity and cognitive correlates showed that money motivation and gambling related cognitions were the only significant independent predictors of gambling severity. Adherence to the gambler's fallacy was stronger for students than for the community sample, and was associated with gambling related cognitions. DISCUSSION The motivational, impulsivity and cognitive, and correlates of problem gambling function similarly in university student gamblers and in gamblers from the general adult community. Interventions for both groups should focus on the financial and cognitive supports of problem gambling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harvey H. C. Marmurek
- Department of Psychology, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada,Corresponding author: Harvey H. C. Marmurek, PhD, Department of Psychology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; Phone: +1-519-824-4120/53673; Fax: +1-519-837-8629;
| | - Jessica Switzer
- Department of Psychology, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada,Now at the University of Calgary, Canada
| | - Joshua D’Alvise
- Department of Marketing and Consumer Studies, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
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Wohl MJA, Gainsbury S, Stewart MJ, Sztainert T. Facilitating responsible gambling: the relative effectiveness of education-based animation and monetary limit setting pop-up messages among electronic gaming machine players. J Gambl Stud 2014; 29:703-17. [PMID: 23090858 PMCID: PMC3825322 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-012-9340-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Although most gamblers set a monetary limit on their play, many exceed this limit—an antecedent of problematic gambling. Responsible gambling tools may assist players to gamble within their means. Historically, however, the impact of such tools has been assessed in isolation. In the current research, two responsible gambling tools that target adherence to a monetary limit were assessed among 72 electronic gaming machine (EGM) players. Participants watched an educational animation explaining how EGMs work (or a neutral video) and then played an EGM in a virtual reality environment. All participants were asked to set a monetary limit on their play, but only half were reminded when that limit was reached. Results showed that both the animation and pop-up limit reminder helped gamblers stay within their preset monetary limit; however, an interaction qualified these main effects. Among participants who did not experience the pop-up reminder, those who watched the animation stayed within their preset monetary limits more than those who did not watch the animation. For those who were reminded of their limit, however, there was no difference in limit adherence between those who watched the animation and those who did not watch the animation. From a responsible gambling perspective, the current study suggests that there is no additive effect of exposure to both responsible gambling tools. Therefore, for minimal disruption in play, a pop-up message reminding gamblers of their preset monetary limit might be preferred over the lengthier educational animation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J A Wohl
- Department of Psychology, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa, ON, K1S 5B6, Canada,
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