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Michael Dixon, University of Waterloo
Kevin Harrigan, University of Waterloo
Categories: · Psychological factors · Slot machines/VLTs ·
| Type of Award | Amount Approved | Project Status |
|---|---|---|
| Level III | $134,133.00 | In Progress |
ABSTRACT
An estimated 4.76% of Ontarians suffer from moderate to severe problem gambling (Williams & Wood, 2004) with 35% of Ontario's gaming revenue generated on the backs of these problem gamblers. Research funded by the OPGRC suggests that gaming machines such as video slot machines are particularly appealing to problem gamblers. Of the total revenue generated by gaming machines, 60% come from these vulnerable persons (Williams, 2004) – a higher percentage than horse racing (53%), casino table games (22%), bingo, raffles (22%) and lotteries (19%). This suggests that slot machines may be the most addictive type of gambling in Ontario today.
The proposed research project seeks to uncover the factors that make slot machines so addictive, and the physiological responsivity traits that make problem gamblers especially vulnerable to this particular type of gambling. Research measures will focus on those related to arousal. Importantly researchers will measure arousal prior to, and during gambling play, both in the laboratory, and in real gambling venues. The research is specifically aligned with exploring and describing the interaction between the gambler and the context/environment in which gambling occurs, and the combined effect on the onset/progression of problem gambling.