Parameters for Safer Gambling Behavior: Examining the Empirical Research

Abstract

There have been claims that new gambling technology is hazardous to player health, and that technological interventions can alleviate gambling-related harm. In this paper, we systematically review the empirical research about the nexus between gambling and technology to evaluate the veracity of these claims. We use a public health perspective (i.e., the Epidemiologic Triangle) to organize and present study results (i.e., agent, host, and environment). This review intends to offer insight about emerging technology and identify areas that indicate a need for additional research. Forty-seven studies met our inclusion and exclusion criteria; a review of this body of work shows that attempts to develop and implement safety features for new gambling technology are promising, but methodologically are rudimentary and limited in scope. Increased attention to the dynamic interaction among host, agent, and environment factors hold potential to advance the field. In addition, improved study methods (e.g., longitudinal analyses of actual betting behavior), and collaboration among policymakers, manufacturers, and researchers can increase understanding of how new gambling technology affects the public health and stimulate new strategies for implementing effective public health interventions.

Effect of Casino-Related Sound, Red Light and Pairs on Decision-Making During the Iowa Gambling Task

“…In this context, although present findings have some limitations, they also have potential implications for the prevention of the development and the maintenance of excessive gambling. For instance, one option would be to inform (beginners and frequent) gamblers on the specific impact of casino-related context on their gambling behaviors (Peller et al 2008). …”

“…As such, when we pull the lever and win some money during gambling, we experience a potent rush of pleasure, precisely because the reward was so uncertain or unexpected (Griffiths and Auer 2013; Redish et al 2007). Another key factor involved in the attractiveness of gambling is that it often occurs in a typical environment, usually casino settings (Griffiths 1993; Hess and Diller 1969; Peller et al 2008). Indeed, entering a casino is typically viewed as a pleasurable experience triggered by general noise, “warm” colors, and reward-related sounds (e.g., Finlay et al 2006, 2007, 2010).…”

The Relationship Between Structural Game Characteristics and Gambling Behavior: A Population-Level Study

“…However, no previous study has examined the relationship between structural characteristics of games’ and population-level gambling behavior. Furthermore, findings from the laboratory and self-report studies should be examined and replicated within a natural setting (Peller et al 2008 ; Shaffer et al 2010 ). In line with recent technological developments, online behavior tracking provide a unique opportunity to examine gambling behavior in the natural setting of the gambler without intrusion by researchers (Delfabbro et al 2012 ; Shaffer et al 2010 ).…”

Empirical Views on European Gambling Law and Addiction

“…418 Recent publications have identifi ed such early markers; 419 they hold the potential to indicate how self-limitations or account closures 420 may be most effectively used. 421 Online gamblers need to be further studied. They may differ from land-based gamblers in relation to their motivation to gamble.…”