Responsible gambling advocates argue that poker machines are a major contributor to Australia’s rising problem gambling rates. Across the country, more and more players find themselves exhibiting compulsive spending on pokies. Now, researchers at Victoria University’s psychology department aim to get to the bottom of the issue. Gambling addiction normally begins with recreation gambling behaviour.
Most players do not begin playing pokies and spending their life savings. In many cases, it seems to be a gradual progression, and the researchers aim to figure out why it occurs. Anne Macaskill, a researcher who will be working on the project, told Stuff.co.nz that people believe that they can learn from their pasts. It is a common belief that repeating particular behaviour will positively influence future outcomes.
For example, a student can improve their grades by applying knowledge and skills that have already proven to be success. In a gambling setting, a horse racing punter can use knowledge about horses’ pasts can help them make successful, winning bets. The same principle does not apply for playing pokies, but many gamblers are unaware of this.
Near misses and free spins not get players closer to hitting the jackpot, but they have been taught to believe that this is the case. "The reality is that getting four out of five is not bringing you closer to a big win,” says Ms Macaskill.
“But telling people that the machines are programmed to deliver a high number of near or small wins and that these do not affect their chances of really winning, does not by itself seem to discourage them from playing.” In her research project, she and her team aim to get to the root of these beliefs. Should they discover what causes problem gamblers to think this way, their findings could influence counselling techniques and treatment methods.
About the Author
