Gambling Research Articles

The active foundations of the illusion of control: an experimental test of the Henslin effect

The mistaken belief that personal control can affect the outcomes of random events is seen as a core part of disordered gamblers’ irrational beliefs via the ‘illusion of control’. The present study tests the extent of action-based manifestation of the illusion of control in a dice-rolling game, which provides a novel controlled test of a claim first made by Henslin that craps gamblers tend to shake their dice harder when aiming for higher numbers. We also tested participants’ recent involvement in gambling games and rates of disordered gambling symptomology as two theoretically-informed potential moderators of any effect. An incentivized dice-rolling experiment was programmed for participants’ mobile devices, where device accelerometer data was used to animate the effects of their shaking and to record the dependent variable of shaking strength. 1,692 US-Based participants (Mean age 37.1; 60.7% male) completed 24 trials each, across which the target number that they would win a $1 bonus if rolled was varied from one to six. Participants rolled the dice 4.1% harder for the highest- (six) compared to lowest-number (one). However, the effect did not vary based on participants’ recent engagement with various gambling games, and also did not correlate with gamblers’ Problem Gambling Severity Index scores. These results uniquely demonstrate a small Henslin effect, but also challenge theoretical accounts that illusion of control effects should be higher in people with greater familiarity with a given situation (i.e. relevant gambling games), or who have higher levels of disordered gambling symptomatology.

Vitality structures in ‘addictive’ game design

For decades, research on technology use and mental health has been based on the assumption that identifiable structures of ‘design’ are psychologically relevant for their users. This has been central especially for the nosological emergence of ‘behavioural addictions’, which currently include two formal diagnoses on technology use: problems related to playing gambling games (gambling disorder) and videogames (gaming disorder). Alas, the research on identifying ‘addictive’ design structures has suffered from major construct validity issues. To make progress over those issues, I draw from the history of ‘vitality affects’ in psychiatry and introduce vitality structures as a design-phenomenological framework that can help researchers conceptualise psychologically relevant ‘bonds’ between entities of game design and corresponding player phenomenology. Vitality structures are not natural kinds to be discovered but pragmatic constructs to be used—and useful as long as they communicate what is both identifiable and empirically prevalent. As a demonstration of practice, I propose working conceptualisations of three vitality structures, which surface in videogames played by gaming treatment-seekers. Systematic research programs for identifying relevant vitality structures can lead to construct-valid and replicable design effects.

Current approaches to the identification and management of gambling disorder: a narrative review to inform clinical practice in Australia and New Zealand.

Gambling disorder is a recognised psychiatric disorder in the Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (DSM-5) and is classified as an addiction alongside alcohol and substance use disorders. The DSM-5 describes a past-year timeframe, episodic or persistent specifiers, early or sustained remission specifiers, and three gambling disorder severity specifiers (mild, moderate and severe). Although anyone can develop gambling disorder, there are known risk factors. In studies involving general adult populations, the likelihood of developing the disorder varies with the type of gambling, and is particularly high for internet gambling, casino table games and poker machines. Australia and New Zealand have shifted the focus of gambling disorder to the identification of gambling harm, in recognition that efforts targeting the prevention of harm may be more effective as they potentially influence a larger segment of the population. Temporal categories of gambling harm (crisis harms versus legacy harms) affect help-seeking and need for treatment. Crisis harms often motivate people to change their behaviour or seek help, whereas treatment addresses legacy harms, which emerge or continue to occur after gambling behaviour ceases. The evidence base and clinical guidelines recommend cognitive behavioural therapy and motivational interviewing but there are many gaps in our understanding of treatment for gambling disorder, including an absence of high quality evaluations that assess treatment effectiveness over the longer term, especially for treatment delivered in community settings. There is also an urgent need to understand how, why and for whom treatment works so that interventions can be optimised to individual needs, thereby facilitating client engagement. Because of limited access to health care and poor retention in treatment, in recent years there has been an increase in treatment choices in the form of internet therapies and smartphone applications.

The Ending Effect in the Domain of Gambling: The Effect of Gain-Loss Status on Economic Decision-Making.

Previous studies have shown that people prefer risk-taking at the end of gambles, a phenomenon called the ending effect. By using the Guess Gambling Game, we investigated the impact of gain-loss status on the ending effect (Experiment 1) and whether and how this effect may be affected by time reference (Experiment 2) and gender (Experiment 1&2). In Experiment 1, we observed the ending effect only in the gain group. Furthermore, gender differences exist in the loss group behavior, females were more risk-averse than males, and males tend to investment more initially and then reduce their investment in a U-shaped pattern (Experiment 1&2). Next, in Experiment 2, the findings indicated that participants in the gain group made riskier decisions and were willing to allocate more money for additional decision opportunities, irrespective of the time conditions. Additionally, under time-limited condition, participants tended to make more decisions in the final round, aiming to maximize their choices times within the limited time. These results contribute to a better understanding of the boundary conditions surrounding the ending effect in risky decision-making and may offer a scientific basis for mitigating and intervening in irrational decision-making.

Characteristics of Gambling Helpline Callers in Macao: A Regional Comparison.

Despite the continued focus on profiling gambling helpline callers, little is known about the characteristics of callers in Macao. To address this gap, this study aims to investigate the characteristics of problem gamblers calling the helpline in Macao and explore the regional differences between callers from Macao, mainland China, and Hong Kong. Specifically, the study examined their demographics, helpline usage, and gambling-related characteristics. The study used data collected by SKHSSCO between 2015 and 2021. The results showed that, at the aggregate level, the helpline callers in Macao were male, young, and full-time employees. The majority used the telephone and reported problems with casino table games. In addition, the referral rate was relatively low, while the rate of suicidal ideation was comparatively high. The results also revealed that callers from Macao, mainland China, and Hong Kong were notably distinct in these characteristics. The findings shed light on how to increase helpline accessibility and create tailored interventions and prevention efforts to better support individuals affected by problem gambling.

Peningkatan Sadar Hukum Siswa di Madrasah Aliyah Tholabuddin Masin mengenai Pengaruh Media Sosial terhadap Judi Online di Kalangan Pelajar melalui Sosialisasi Pencegahan Judi Online terhadap Pelajar

In the Legislation of the Republic of Indonesia, online gambling has been strictly regulated and prohibited. However, it is unfortunate that this does not affect public awareness regarding the prohibition of online gambling games. To create a generation that has an awareness of the dangers of online gambling, it is necessary to provide the right material and direction for the community. through legal awareness raising activities regarding the influence of social media on online gambling among students as a first step in preventing online gambling for students, especially for students at Madrasah Aliyah Tholabuddin Masin. In this activity, the authors used the method of presentation and discussion related to the prevention and handling of online gambling entitled Smart Generation: Stop Online Gambling. The specific target of this activity is that Madrasah Aliyah Tholabuddin Masin students can be well educated about the meaning, legal basis and efforts to prevent and overcome online gambling cases. The main purpose of holding this activity is expected to be able to apply the values that show the spirit of state defense to the next generation of the nation in becoming a superior generation in the future. The increase in understanding and knowledge of students can be seen from the post test results which show that students are able to understand the material that has been presented in this community service.

Associations between Marketing Exposure, In-game Purchases, Problem Gaming, Simulated Gambling, and Psychological Distress among Adolescents.

This study examined the relationships between marketing exposure, in-game purchase, problem gaming, online simulated gambling game playing, and psychological distress. Data were obtained from a sample of 2,595 seventh-grade students from 30 middle schools in Taiwan. A self-administered questionnaire was conducted in 2020. The results indicated that 94% of adolescents engage in online gaming, with 38% making in-game purchases, and 9% playing online simulated gambling games. The multiple regression results showed that adolescents who are exposed to higher levels of gaming marketing, influenced by advertising effects, involved in in-game purchases, and have lower levels of active parental mediation were more likely to experience problem gaming. Adolescents who have increased exposure to gambling game marketing, are influenced by advertising effects, are involved in in-game purchases, and who are experiencing problem gaming were more likely to engage in online simulated gambling game playing and token purchasing. Involvement in in-game purchases, problem gaming, and playing online simulated gambling games were associated with higher levels of psychological distress and poor sleep quality. In conclusion, the results of this study link adolescents' exposure to marketing with their involvement in in-game purchases, problem gaming, and engaging in online simulated gambling.

Impact of sports gambling on mental health

Utilizing the staggered legalization of gambling across states following the repeal of the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act, we provide causal evidence of the impact of gambling on mental health. Our results indicate that legalized gambling leads to a 5.5 percentage points decrease – over 11% – in the likelihood of poor mental health for men between 18 and 24, but a 3.8 percentage point increase – nearly 10% – for men between 30 and 34; there is no discernible effect for women.

Systematic Assessment of Gambling Type Involvement: Reliability and Validity of the Gambling Disorder Identification Test (GDIT).

Gambling type involvement, both in terms of participation (engagement in specific gambling types) and diversity (how many gambling types an individual engages in), is a key feature to address in gambling self-report measures, but such systematic measurement procedures are scarce. The aim of this study was to test the psychometric performance of the gambling type assessment in the recently developed Gambling Disorder Identification Test (GDIT), in terms of test-retest reliability, convergent validity, and patterns of gambling diversity, among help-seeking and general population gambling samples (total n = 603). Overall, online gambling was more commonly reported as problematic than land-based gambling. Retest reliability varied for specific gambling types (ICC range 0.32-0.64, rtet range 0.66-0.85). In terms of gambling participation, online gambling showed stronger correlations with GDIT total score (i.e., symptom severity) than land-based gambling, where Slots showed the strongest correlation (r = 0.52), followed by Casino table games (r = 0.25), Sports and Horse betting (r = 0.16 and r = 0.14, respectively), and Poker (r = 0.14). Lotteries showed no correlation with GDIT total score (r=-0,01). For Slots gambling, all gambling diversity levels (including Slots as a single gambling type) were on average associated with the highest diagnostic severity level (GDIT total score > 30; severe gambling disorder). Finally, explorative configural frequency analysis identified typical and antitypical gambling diversity patterns. The result from the current study corroborates findings that engagement in specific gambling types matter, and that such features should be included in gambling measurement. We conclude that the GDIT is a reliable and valid measure for systematic assessment of gambling type involvement. The GDIT can be used to assess gambling participation and diversity, as part of a broad measurement setup for problem gambling and gambling disorder.

Problems of legal regulation of gambling and lotteries in Ukraine and their impact on proving illegal activity in the organization and conduct of gambling, lotteries (Article 203-2 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine)

The article is devoted to the analysis of the basic legislation that regulates the spheres of gambling and lotteries, the identification of problems and gaps in the legal regulation of this sphere, which affect the process of proving criminal offenses provided for in Art. 203-2 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine and the formation of scientific proposals on ways to solve these problems. The authors draw attention to the fact that the gambling business has always been and will remain a high-risk type of activity characterized by a high level of the shadow sphere, and a number of unsolved problems of legal regulation today help illegal businesses evade criminal responsibility for carrying out illegal activities, because these problems do not allow pre-trial investigation bodies to establish the event of a criminal offense, which is the central element of the subject of proof, primarily during the qualification of such actions as: issuing or conducting lotteries by a person who does not have the status of a lottery operator; the organization or functioning of institutions for the purpose of providing access to gambling games or lotteries conducted on the Internet. As a result, no more than 10% of criminal proceedings initiated under Art. 203-2 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine end with the court’s sentencing. The authors admit that today restrictions or prohibitions in the activity of organizing and conducting gambling games do not hold lotteries, and for the activity and issuance and holding of lotteries, the prohibition of conducting gambling games does not allow to make an unambiguous conclusion, a lottery or a gambling game is conducted based only on visual signs. Therefore, the authors provide a set of features that allow us to distinguish between these types of activities. Also, the problems of special legislation that regulate the procedures for the implementation of these types of activities are clearly defined, and specific ways of solving these problems are proposed for the Parliament, the Government and KRAIL.

Analisis Pengaruh Iklan Judi Slot Online pada Situs Tokyo99 terhadap Masyarakat Kabupaten Sumbawa

The current development of the internet really helps people so that they can communicate easily without having to meet in person or communicate long distances. This is a positive impact for someone who uses internet technology media wisely. Those who initially used the Internet only to access learning information, games and social media, then because of the curiosity of young people, some began to access online gambling games. One of the online slot gambling sites is TOKYO99. The behavior of playing online slot gambling can have a negative impact on the perpetrator and the social environment. The impact that can arise from this gambling behavior is usually called the Phatalogical Gambler. The aim of this research is to determine the influence of advertising on the TOKYO99 site in promoting online slot gambling games to the people of Sumbawa Regency. This research uses a descriptive qualitative approach method. Qualitative research methods are qualitative data processing techniques carried out in order to describe or discuss research results using conceptual analysis and theoretical analysis approaches. This thesis also uses the theory of syringes and uses and gratification. The research results show that the TOKYO99 site uses social media as promotional material to encourage people to play online slot gambling. In playing online slot gambling games, the TOKYO99 site offers quite fantastic results, so that people who see this online slot gambling advertising promotion are interested and start playing the game.

Urgensi Kebijakan Sebagai Upaya Pencegahan Judi Online di Perguruan Tinggi Berdasarkan Konsep Maslahah

Online gambling cases are found not only in the general public but also in the educational environment. Educational institutions have become a paradox between the advancement of knowledge, morals and behavior of some of their students. As a result, there needs to be action taken by the government to prevent similar incidents from occurring in other educational institutions. The government is considered urgent to use policy instruments to stop online gambling in educational institutions, especially in universities (campuses). This qualitative research uses normative research with a statue approach. Using the literature method (library research). The data of this research is analyzed qualitatively, namely secondary data in the form of theories, definitions and substance from various literatures, and laws and regulations, as well as primary data obtained from literature studies, then analyzed with relevant laws, theories and expert opinions to formulate the benefits. The results showed that the impact caused by this online gambling game is very significant, including a bad stimulus for the Higher Education environment, namely the lack of interest or motivation to study for students, worsening the economy such as debt and decreasing spiritual or religious observance. In addition, it affects psychologically due to defeat, impaired health and triggers acts of criminality such as stealing and cheating.

Too Young to Gamble: Long-term Risks from Underage Gambling

The increasing availability of gambling opportunities worldwide has the potential to impact youth gambling behavior and the prevalence of gambling-related harm. This paper studies whether starting gambling at an early age (i.e., below the minimum legal gambling age) increases an individual’s likelihood of suffering some kind of gambling-related harm in the future. Data taken from the Study on the Prevalence, Behavior and Characteristics of Gamblers in Spain provide information on respondents’ gambling starting age and assess gambling risk based on criteria established by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV). Estimates from an ordered probit model suggest that starting to gamble while under the minimum legal age is associated with a higher likelihood of problem gambling.

Fenomena Judi Online di Kalangan Generasi Muda

Online gambling games are popular among teenagers nowadays. This is caused by very sophisticated technological advances, socio-economic pressures, and the role of social media as an advertising platform. This research aims to understand the reasons why the younger generation plays online gambling and solve the problems of this case. In collecting data, researchers obtained data through observation and interviews. The results of this research explain the factors of playing online gambling such as environmental, cognitive and perception factors. This case has an impact on finances (material values), vital values, spiritual values ​​(mental health and social relationships). Playing online gambling games is caused by technological accessibility, socio-economic pressures, lack of public awareness about the laws and risks of online gambling.

‘Getting addicted to it and losing a lot of money… it’s just like a hole.’ A grounded theory model of how social determinants shape adolescents’ choices to not gamble

BackgroundGambling abstinence when underage lowers the risk of harmful gambling in later life. However, little research has examined why many young people refrain from gambling, even though this knowledge can inform protective strategies and lower risk factors to reduce underage gambling and subsequent harm. This study draws on the lived experience of adolescent non-gamblers to explore how social determinants while growing up have shaped their reasons and choices to not gamble.MethodsFourteen Australian non-gamblers, aged 12–17 years, participated in an in-depth individual interview (4 girls, 3 boys) or online community (4 girls, 3 boys). Questions in each condition differed, but both explored participants’ gambling-related experiences while growing up, including exposure, attitudes and behaviours of parents and peers, advertising, simulated gambling and motivations for not gambling. The analysis used adaptive grounded theory methods.ResultsThe grounded theory model identifies several reasons for not gambling, including not being interested, being below the legal gambling age, discouragement from parent and peers, concern about gambling addiction and harm, not wanting to risk money on a low chance of winning, and moral objections. These reasons were underpinned by several social determinants, including individual, parental, peer and environmental factors that can interact to deter young people from underage gambling. Key protective factors were parental role modelling and guidance, friendship groups who avoided gambling, critical thinking, rational gambling beliefs, financial literacy and having other hobbies and interests.ConclusionsChoices to not gamble emanated from multiple layers of influence, implying that multi-layered interventions, aligned with a public health response, are needed to deter underage gambling. At the environmental level, better age-gating for monetary and simulated gambling, countering cultural pressures, and less exposure to promotional gambling messages, may assist young people to resist these influences. Interventions that support parents to provide appropriate role modelling and guidance for their children are also important. Youth education could include cautionary tales from people with lived experience of gambling harm, and education to increase young people’s financial literacy, ability to recognise marketing tactics, awareness of the risks and harms of gambling, and how to resist peer and other normalising gambling influences.

Effect of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Gambling Behavior in Mainland Chinese Gamblers in Macau: Cross-Sectional Survey Study.

This study examined the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the gambling behavior of individuals who were already actively engaged in such pursuits. We aimed to uncover the intricate consequences of the pandemic on this specific demographic, emphasizing the importance of understanding the complex connection between public health concerns such as the COVID-19 pandemic and gambling behavior from a public health perspective. In addition to identifying immediate impacts, this study holds significance in assessing potential long-term public health implications for the broader gambling industry. This study investigated how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the gambling behavior of Mainland Chinese tourists in Macau from a public health perspective. We aimed to understand the changing patterns of gambling habits within this specific demographic by comparing their behavior before and during the pandemic, with a particular emphasis on the evolving dynamics of gambling and their public health consequences. This study provides a detailed exploration of the impact and implications of global health emergencies on this particular demographic's gambling behaviors and preferences. This study used a robust cross-sectional analysis involving a sample of 334 Mainland Chinese gamblers with prior experiences in casinos in Macau. The sample deliberately encompassed individuals involved in gambling before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data were collected through carefully designed questionnaires to gather information on gambling habits, preferences, and observed behavioral changes in the sample. This study unveiled a notable shift in Mainland Chinese gamblers' behavior during the COVID-19 pandemic. A considerable number of participants opted for web-based platforms over traditional land-based casinos, resulting in reduced budgets, less time spent on gambling, and decreased participation in social gambling. Remarkably, there was a notable surge in online gambling, indicating a noteworthy adaptability of gamblers to changing circumstances. These findings emphasize the dynamic nature of gambling habits during global public health emergencies, revealing the resilient and evolving preferences of Mainland Chinese gamblers in response to the challenges posed by the pandemic. This study highlights the negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on casino gambling, notably evident in a significant decline in Mainland Chinese tourists visiting Macau for gambling. There is a noticeable shift from traditional gambling to web-based alternatives, with individuals seeking options within the pandemic constraints. Furthermore, the findings point out an increase in gambling among the younger generation and behavioral changes in individuals with mood disorders. The findings of this study emphasize the critical need for proactive measures to address evolving gambling preferences and associated risks during public health crises; furthermore, these findings underscore the importance of adaptive strategies within the gambling industry, as well as the necessity for effective public health interventions and regulatory frameworks to respond to unprecedented challenges with efficacy and precision.

Exploring the Complex Dynamics: Examining the Influence of Deviant Personas in Online Gambling.

The widespread use of computers and the Internet has substantially changed the gaming environment during the past ten years. The gambling industry is no longer exclusive to land-based gaming establishments (such as casinos and racetracks). Today, a few keystrokes on a computer are all it takes to access gaming operations. Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat and various other platforms constitute a particular form of access that has drawn more attention from academics in gambling studies. This increasing focus is partially attributable to the fact that social media sites have gained popularity as a means of accessing online gambling websites via hyperlinks hidden inside adverts. Users of social networking platforms can play free-to-play virtual gambling games using programmes. Virtual gaming platforms are the new name for these free-to-play simulation games of gambling. However, there is evidence to suggest that playing social casino games may serve as a "gateway" to real money gambling. The purpose of this study is to investigate the influence of deviant personas on online gambling behavior. By examining the relationship between deviant personas and online gambling, we seek to enhance our understanding of the factors that contribute to problematic gambling behaviors in virtual environments. Employing a robust methodological approach, this research amalgamates the analytical power of PLS-SEM (Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling) to explore the factors influencing the intention to adopt online gambling services. The data for this study were obtained by administering an online survey questionnaire to a sample of 325 aware customers of online gambling. The study's discerning insights have notable implications for the academic community, brand strategists, online game designers, and online gambling platform providers, offering valuable guidance for decision-making and strategy formulation within the burgeoning online gambling industry.

0802 Adolescents’ In-game Purchase, Problem Gaming, Gambling Game Playing Associated with Poor Sleep Quality

0802 Adolescents’ In-game Purchase, Problem Gaming, Gambling Game Playing Associated with Poor Sleep Quality

Conditional Beta Approximation: Two Applications

Suppose that X,Y are two independent positive continuous random variables. Let P=\frac{X}{X+Y} and Z=X+Y. If X, Y have gamma distributions with the same scale parameter, then P distribution will be beta and P,\ Z are independent. In the case that the distributions of these two variables are not gamma, the P distribution is well approximated by the beta distribution. However, P,\ Z are dependent. According to matching moment method, it is necessary to compute the moments of conditional distribution for beta fitting. In this paper, some new methods for computing moments of conditional distribution of P given Z are proposed. First of all, it is suggested to consider the regression method. Then Monte Carlo simulation is advised. The Bayesian posterior distribution of P is suggested. Applications of differential equations are also reviewed. These results are applied in two applications namely variance change point detection and winning percentage of gambling game are proposed. The probability of change in variance in a sequence of variables, as a leading indicator of possible change, is proposed. Similarly, the probability of winning in a sequential gambling framework is proposed. The optimal time to exit of gambling game is proposed. A game theoretic approach to problem of optimal exit time is proposed. In all cases, beta approximations are proposed. Finally, a conclusion section is also given.

Availability restrictions and mandatory precommitment in land-based gambling: effects on online substitutes and total consumption in longitudinal sales data

BackgroundGambling causes important harms in societies. According to the public health approach, the most effective policies to reduce harms target full populations. Availability restrictions and mandatory precommitment are among the most effective measures. However, restrictions on the availability of some gambling products or channels may also be offset by increased consumption in other products. Substitution effects can have negative public health impacts due to differing harm potential across different gambling products. This paper uses longitudinal sales data (2019–2022) from the Finnish gambling monopoly Veikkaus. During the observation period, the availability of gambling was restricted in Finland due to subsequent waves of Covid-19-related restrictions. In addition, the gambling monopoly introduced mandatory precommitment to land-based EGMs. We focus on how these restrictive policy changes impacted the total consumption of gambling and possible substitution effects.MethodsThe Finnish gambling monopoly provided weekly theoretical loss data per gambling product category and gambling channel (online, land-based) for the period of January 2019 – July 2022 based on a statutory obligation. We analysed the effects of availability restrictions and other public health measures on the consumption of different products using descriptive time series and regression analyses. We compared the sale of land-based products to online equivalents at product category level and included main policy change periods in the models.ResultsTotal consumption of gambling declined during 2019–2022 mainly due to reduced land-based electronic gambling machine (EGM) consumption. Declines in land-based EGM sales were not offset by online alternatives or other close substitutes in the long term. However, during the first wave of Covid-19, there was an observable substitution of land-based table games by online alternatives and land-based horse betting and possibly sports betting by online horse betting. Overall, the results also show that Covid-19 functioned as a boost to an already existing trend of increasing digitalisation of gambling.ConclusionsThe study provides empirical support for the effectiveness of public health-oriented policies in reducing the total consumption of gambling. Availability restrictions and mandatory precommitment are therefore likely to also reduce the burden of harms of gambling to individuals and societies.