Responsible Gambling Practices Research Articles

Predictors of PGSI: A Study of Pakistan Stock Exchange

This study used PGSI to measure the motives of online stock exchange gamblers according to their responses about their online gambling. The main aim of the current study is to holistically explore the impact of motivational factors that motivate more usage of online gambling in Pakistan and behavioral factors that investigate the level of implementation of responsible gambling practices on PGSI in Pakistan’s online stock exchange gamblers. We collected data through questionnaires and for analysis we used SEM, multiple regression and multinomial logistic regression. Results indicated that motivational factors that significantly impact PGSI are excitement, financial motivation, escape and relaxation and in terms of responsible gambling practices, game design and transparent terms and conditions are the key elements of behavioral factors while self-exclusion and self-help (SE and SH) are not considered as significant factors.

Public Awareness and Practice of Responsible Gambling in Macao.

Responsible gambling (RG) is a relatively new concept to the Macao gambling industry. Although recent studies reported a heightened public awareness of RG, the prevalence of disordered gambling is still high. This discrepancy may suggest an existing gap between RG awareness and gambling practices, pinpointing aspects that need to be improved by different RG stakeholders. The gap may be attributable to people's limited knowledge toward practices favoring RG. To explore means for enhancing the RG campaign, we studied Macao residents' interpretation and adoption of RG practices. In Study 1, a random community sample was collected to assess the extent to which common RG practices were adopted. Results suggested that there was a fair proportion of gamblers not adhering to them and gambling disorder tendency was related to the adoption of RG practices. It implied a successful promotion of RG practices may reduce gambling problems. In Study 2, focus group discussions were conducted to explore how RG was conceptualized. Twenty-five participants (including 11 casino employees) took part in four focus group interviews. All participants were aware of RG but their knowledge of RG practices was limited. Very few of them were able to identify major practices such as putting constraints on gambling amount and time and the application for self-exclusion. We argue that future RG promotion needs to be more specific and behavior-oriented and it should also address various procedural concerns on how RG practices can be implemented.

Assigning responsibility for gambling-related harm: scrutinizing processes of direct and indirect consumer responsibilization of gamblers in Sweden

This study is an inquiry into how actors in the Swedish gambling industry, gambling problem prevention and support structures articulate responsibility for the problems that arise from gambling. A main point made in the study is that responsibility for the gambling-related harm is actively constructed and reproduced in a hegemonic way that situates the main responsibility for the emergence and handling of gambling-related harm on the individual gambler and that relies heavily on the individual’s capacity to control and adjust his/her consumption to prevent gambling related harm. Drawing on extensive ethnographical fieldwork on responsible gambling practices in the Swedish context, the author brings attention to the often-unproblematized view of contemporary responsible gambling measures, and the need to develop a self-reflexive critical analysis of the ways in which responsibility is divided and assigned in this politicized market and wider policy field. As a conceptual contribution, an analytical distinction is suggested between measures of direct responsibilization (teaching and training gamblers to be responsible) and measures of indirect responsibilization (teaching and training intermediaries in the market, such as gambling agents and support association staff, to relinquish responsibility on behalf of the gambling consumer). The results indicate that such a distinction is fruitful for a nuanced understanding of contemporary responsibility policies and practices.

A three stage analysis of motivational and behavioural factors in UK internet gambling

This paper uses the Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI) to determine differences in UK internet player responses to their motives for gambling online. It also evaluates their views relating to responsible gambling practices and behavioural factors. A three stage analysis applying Structural Equation Modelling (SEM); multiple regression; and multinomial logistic regression is used. The main research instruments is an internet based questionnaire. Our findings for the motivation factors highlight that the most significant factors which players perceive are escape and relaxation; financial motivation; and social and competition. In terms of player views in relation to responsible gambling practices and behavioural factors both self-exclusion and self-help; and game design are identified as the key factors. Other factors such as proactive responsible gambling; transparent terms and conditions; and use of player information are not acknowledged as significant factors by players. This study also suggests that the financial motive to gamble should be divided into the following sub-motives: ‘to win money’ and to ‘earn income’. Our main policy recommendation includes the need for a more transparent system that places emphasis on tangible or auditable means of demonstrating ethical responsibilities, and to determine areas of improvement.

Social media marketing and gambling: An interview study of gambling operators in Australia

Social media has become an established tool to engage and maintain customer loyalty. However, its successful use involves a balance between promotion, public relations and corporate social responsibility. Nineteen individuals working in the Australian gambling industry were interviewed. The aim was to explore how gambling operators are using social media to engage with users and promote products, their considerations underpinning these actions, and the extent to which responsible gambling practices are included. All operators were active on social media and used these platforms to attempt to increase customer engagement and strengthen existing relationships. Gambling-related content was usually balanced against non-gambling content, or operators focused exclusively on non-gambling content. Sales goals or raising revenue were not direct aims of social media use. Operators sought to use social media as an indirect way to maintain their customer base and attract new customers via favourable ratings and information transfer. Few operators provided specific responsible gambling messages, despite being mindful of the dangers of targeting vulnerable populations, specifically young people and problem gamblers. This study is unique as it provides an in-depth first-hand account of how gambling operators are using social media.

Impact of virtual atmospherics and functional qualities on the online gambler's experience

This study empirically tests a stimulus–organism–response (S–O–R) structural model that proposes that an online casino's atmospheric cues and functional qualities influence individuals' affective and cognitive responses, which in turn impact consumer behavioural intentions. Using self-reported data from a primarily US-based sample, analysed elements of the online gambling site stimulus included high and low task-relevant cues, financial trust, and gambling value. Demographic characteristics were found to moderate the relationship between the stimulus and internal satisfaction, with demographic group differences found among all stimulus constructs. Results emphasise the significant role that atmospherics and functional qualities play in generating positive behaviours from online gamblers, with additional implications in marketplace competitiveness and in responsible gambling practices.

FACILITATING PLAYER CONTROL IN GAMBLING

Research indicates that gamblers frequently set self-imposed limits on how much time and money they wish to gamble in a given gambling session, yet consistently gamble more than initially intended. The emotional and arousing impact of gambling, as well as dissociative states gamblers experience whilst gambling, may contribute to this behavioural shift which reflects a failure in self-control. Essential then, is the need for harm minimisation strategies aimed at allowing a gambler to stay in control of their decisions and behaviour during gambling, whilst concurrently limiting the negative impact this may have on the gambling experience for those who frequently stay in control. The following article evaluates the use of limit setting and pre-commitment, the use of ‘cooling off’ periods, and restricting access to additional funds as harm minimisation strategies, in terms of their efficacy in facilitating self-control in problem and non-problem gambling populations. As with any potential mass intervention, such as the use of mandatory limit setting, the need for robust empirical evidence to prove its efficacy is essential. Existing research, while providing promise, falls short of this criterion, indicating a requirement for more stringent empirical research to best guide responsible gambling practices aimed at facilitating player control during gambling.

Work stress and problem gambling among Chinese casino employees in Macau

The prior literature has suggested that gaming venue employees might be an at-risk group for developing gambling problems. A variety of occupational stressors and workplace factors were uncovered for causing the elevated risk. However, little theory-driven research has been conducted to investigate Asian gaming venue employees’ experience of work stress and gambling behavior. Adopting the transactional theories of stress and coping, this exploratory study examined perceived job satisfaction, work stressors, stress strains, coping responses and gambling behavior among Chinese casino employees in Macau. Semi-structured interviews with fifteen casino employees (9 men and 6 women) were conducted. Many interviewees described working at casino as very stressful. Seven types of workplace stressors were identified. Most were aware of the harmful effects of work stress on their health. They experienced physical and psychological strains despite various coping strategies were employed to alleviate job stress. Many gambled after work to ‘unwind’. Using the DSM-IV criteria, one male employee could be categorized as a pathological gambler, and five men exhibited symptoms of problem gambling. In addition to job stress and male gender, other risk factors for problem gambling were also found. The study results have implication for workplace stress prevention and responsible gambling practices.

Legislative Councilors’ Perceptions of Gambling Expansion and Responsible Gambling Practices in Hong Kong

This study investigates the Legislative Councilors’ perceptions of gambling expansion and responsible gambling practices in Hong Kong. Employing quota sampling strategies, fourteen councilors were recruited to attend a 30-minute semi-structured interview. The results showed that many respondents (64.3%) rejected further expansion of legalized gambling in Hong Kong. Only two interviewees explicitly supported further gambling liberalization (e.g. casino gambling or increases in horse races). While the opponents were concerned about the negative impacts associated with legalized gambling activities, the proponents emphasized the economic benefits of further gambling expansion. Factors that might have influenced the councilors’ views on gambling expansion were identified: individual gambling attitudes and past experience in gambling participation, knowledge about excessive gambling, and views on individual versus social responsibility for gambling problems. Few interviewees considered that gamblers were solely responsible for their actions, difficulties and for their problem-solving endeavors. Most agreed that both the government and gambling operators have a very important role to play in addressing problem gambling, and would like to urge these key stakeholders to minimize gambling-related harms through improving responsible gambling practices. The study results have implications for gambling legislation, policy, and research.

Legislative Councilors’ Perceptions of Gambling Expansion and Responsible Gambling Practices in Hong Kong

Abstract This study investigates the Legislative Councilors’ perceptions of gambling expansion and responsible gambling practices in Hong Kong. Employing quota sampling strategies, fourteen councilors were recruited to attend a 30-minute semi-structured interview. The results showed that many respondents (64.3%) rejected further expansion of legalized gambling in Hong Kong. Only two interviewees explicitly supported further gambling liberalization (e.g. casino gambling or increases in horse races). While the opponents were concerned about the negative impacts associated with legalized gambling activities, the proponents emphasized the economic benefits of further gambling expansion. Factors that might have influenced the councilors’ views on gambling expansion were identified: individual gambling attitudes and past experience in gambling participation, knowledge about excessive gambling, and views on individual versus social responsibility for gambling problems. Few interviewees considered that gamblers were solely responsible for their actions, difficulties and for their problem-solving endeavors. Most agreed that both the government and gambling operators have a very important role to play in addressing problem gambling, and would like to urge these key stakeholders to minimize gambling-related harms through improving responsible gambling practices. The study results have implications for gambling legislation, policy, and research.

Responsible Gambling Policies and Practices in Macao: A Critical Review

Abstract Gambling has been a legalized industry in Macao since 1847 and it is now the largest casino city in the world in terms of gross gaming revenue. However, no governmental efforts to control gambling-related harms were made until the Resilience Centre was set up in 2005. Based on a literature review and data gathered from field studies, this paper documents what has been undertaken by government, casino operators, gambling treatment and social service professionals, gambling researchers and academia to promote responsible gambling. Macao’s efforts to promote responsible gambling include public awareness for different communities, free treatment services for residents, as well as tourists who seek help, and also research. Although responsible gambling practices are new to Macao, and sound governance on responsible gambling policies has yet to be developed, the Macao government has announced its intention to enforce responsible gambling as an integral part of gaming policies. It is hoped that Macao will further improve responsible gambling practices under the leadership of local government.

Awareness Promotion about Problem Gambling for Casino Employees: An Asian Experience

This paper evaluates the impact of an awareness program for Asian casino employees. Contents of the program included the following topics: (1) Understanding the nature of casino games, and the notion of ‘randomness’ in gambling activities, (2) Examining the relationship between ‘chance’ and excessive gambling, (3) Defining ‘safe’ gambling, (4) Identifying the signs of problem gambling, (5) Deciding when and how should a casino employee offer help to problem gamblers in distress. Results indicated that the participants increased their knowledge about chance and randomness in gambling could better detect the manifestation of problem gambling, became more confident of when and how to offer help to excessive gamblers, and were convinced that responsible gambling practices would be beneficial to casinos and to patrons. The knowledge gained from the workshop was retained by participants at a follow-up undertaken after 12 months of the training. Participants’ competence in offering information and help to gamblers in distress was also maintained. The workshop also generated the introduction of a venue-based customer care project. The implications of these results on responsible gambling policies are discussed.

Responsible Gambling Policies and Practices in Macao: A Critical Review

Gambling has been a legalized industry in Macao since 1847 and it is now the largest casino city in the world in terms of gross gaming revenue. However, no governmental efforts to control gambling-related harms were made until the Resilience Centre was set up in 2005. Based on a literature review and data gathered from field studies, this paper documents what has been undertaken by government, casino operators, gambling treatment and social service professionals, gambling researchers and academia to promote responsible gambling. Macao’s efforts to promote responsible gambling include public awareness for different communities, free treatment services for residents, as well as tourists who seek help, and also research. Although responsible gambling practices are new to Macao, and sound governance on responsible gambling policies has yet to be developed, the Macao government has announced its intention to enforce responsible gambling as an integral part of gaming policies. It is hoped that Macao will further improve responsible gambling practices under the leadership of local government.

Awareness Promotion about Problem Gambling for Casino Employees: An Asian Experience

Abstract This paper evaluates the impact of an awareness program for Asian casino employees. Contents of the program included the following topics: (1) Understanding the nature of casino games, and the notion of ‘randomness’ in gambling activities, (2) Examining the relationship between ‘chance’ and excessive gambling, (3) Defining ‘safe’ gambling, (4) Identifying the signs of problem gambling, (5) Deciding when and how should a casino employee offer help to problem gamblers in distress. Results indicated that the participants increased their knowledge about chance and randomness in gambling could better detect the manifestation of problem gambling, became more confident of when and how to offer help to excessive gamblers, and were convinced that responsible gambling practices would be beneficial to casinos and to patrons. The knowledge gained from the workshop was retained by participants at a follow-up undertaken after 12 months of the training. Participants’ competence in offering information and help to gamblers in distress was also maintained. The workshop also generated the introduction of a venue-based customer care project. The implications of these results on responsible gambling policies are discussed.

Legislative Councilors' Perceptions of Gambling Expansion and Responsible Gambling Practices in Hong Kong

Legislative Councilors' Perceptions of Gambling Expansion and Responsible Gambling Practices in Hong Kong

Responsible Gambling Policies and Practices in Macao: A Critical Review

Responsible Gambling Policies and Practices in Macao: A Critical Review

Electronic Gaming Machine Warning Messages: Information versus Self-Evaluation

ABSTRACT Regulators have extensively used warning signs in many health domains to enhance knowledge and shift attitudes and behaviors to reduce associated harm. The effectiveness of these signs is influenced by their physical attributes and content. Gambling warning signs traditionally focus on the following: informing individuals of the potentially risky outcomes of gambling and the odds of winning, encouraging gambling within affordable limits, and advertising counseling services. The limited evidence suggests that warning signs for gambling attract attention and improve knowledge but are generally ineffective in modifying players’ thoughts and behaviors. Therefore, the authors aimed to determine the optimal content of messages that would enhance responsible gambling practices. The authors conclude that, in contrast with signs displaying probabilities or informing players of the risks associated with gambling, signs designed to encourage players to reflect on, appraise, evaluate, and self-regulate their actions have greater theoretical and empirical support. The authors comment that warning signs should promote the application of self-appraisal and self-regulation skills rather than the simple provision of information on odds and probabilities to maximize their effectiveness as a public health tool.

Implementing Responsible Gambling Practices in a Regional Area

In recognition that they largely control the context in which legalised gambling is operated, state governments in Australia have taken an increasingly active role in encouraging the gambling industry to implement responsible gambling practices. In the state of Queensland, the government introduced the voluntary Queensland Responsible Gambling Code of Practice in May 2002. This article reports part of a larger study investigating gambling providers' awareness of this Code, their implementation of its provisions and their views on its likely effectiveness in hotels, casinos and clubs in certain case study areas in remote, regional and urban Queensland. This article draws only on data for the selected regional area, Townsville. Semistructured interviews with managers and staff in 12 venues revealed mixed awareness of the Code, limited implementation of its component elements and variable support for its likely effectiveness. However, a committed group of five venue managers was much more proactive in implementing the Code than those in the remaining venues and much more supportive of its potential effectiveness. These five venues two clubs, two hotels and the casino subsequently formed a responsible gambling consultative committee, a regional network initiated by the local Centacare welfare agency. The experience of this committee points to numerous benefits that such a network can provide in addressing regional challenges regarding responsible conduct of gambling. As such, this study highlights some of the possible facilitators and challenges in implementing responsible gambling practices in regional areas, particularly those with similar characteristics to Townsville.