The Complex Landscape of Problem Gambling in the U.S. Gaming Industry
Discussion in webinar hosted by Mindway AI centers around challenges and solutions for problem gambling issues
Exploring the problem gambling landscape in the U.S. gaming sector is akin to describing the colors of the wind to a blind person. During a webinar sponsored by Mindway AI, panelists agreed that there's no one-size-fits-all solution.
Referring to problematic gambling behavior, Mindway AI CEO Rasmus Kjaergaard stated, "It's always things that can be improved. The regulatory landscape varies depending on the region, and that's something to consider."
As the U.S. gaming landscape expands, the importance of responsible gaming heightens for those in the industry. Yet, responsible gaming expert and consultant, Brianne Doura-Schawohl, notes resistance from some industry players and stakeholders.
"There's a belief that good problem and responsible gambling policies stifle business innovation in the U.S.," Doura-Schawohl said.
Addressing this issue, Mark Vander Linden, the Director of Research and Responsible Gaming at the Massachusetts Gaming Commission, emphasized, "My primary interest is not gambling revenue. It's ensuring people are cared for and supported."
According to Rasmus Kjaergaard, responsible gambling programs should be viewed as akin to safety features in aircraft or vehicles – helpful for those in need, yet superfluous for the majority.
"The majority of gamblers are at low risk. We should not burden them with unnecessary restrictions. However, those exhibiting signs of adverse problems require immediate aid to curb further risk," Kjaergaard said.
Thomas Simcock, Principal Analyst for Vixio Regulatory Intelligence, pointed out another obstacle – mental health issues often associated with problem gamblers.
"A public health approach should be adopted, as addressing mental health disorders may aid in reducing problem gambling," Simcock suggested.
Unregulated markets also pose a problem. To combat this, Simcock advises focusing on deterring players from unlicensed sites and enhancing the appeal of regulated operators through responsible gambling measures.
Tackling Problem Gambling in Unregulated Markets
To address problem gambling in unregulated online gaming markets, several measures can be taken:
- Regulatory oversight: Implement clear laws and regulations for online gaming platforms, ensuring they adhere to responsible gambling standards and offer robust age verification processes and spending limits.
- Licensing requirements: Mandate that all online gambling platforms obtain a license, requiring compliance with strict guidelines to protect consumers.
- Technological solutions: Use AI to track player behavior and spending patterns, early detection of problem gambling, and trigger interventions such as warnings or limiting access to certain features.
- Educational programs: Launch public awareness campaigns and provide training for professionals and consumers on recognizing and managing problem gambling behaviors.
- Support services: Offer confidential helplines, counseling services, and self-exclusion programs with effective enforcement across platforms.
- Research and collaboration: Conduct ongoing research, collaborate with industry partners, and implement evidence-based solutions.
- Education for vulnerable groups: Implement youth education programs and fund pilot programs focused on online gaming addiction prevention among high-risk groups.
By combining these measures, it is possible to create a comprehensive approach to addressing problem gambling in unregulated online gaming markets, thereby protecting consumers and promoting responsible gambling practices across the industry.
- In the discussion about problem gambling in unregulated online gaming markets, Rasmus Kjaergaard, the CEO of Mindway AI, expressed that responsible gambling programs should be viewed as safety features in aircraft or vehicles, helping those in need while avoiding unnecessary restrictions for the majority.
- Brianne Doura-Schawohl, a responsible gaming expert, reminded that while resistance from some industry players and stakeholders exists, it's essential to embrace responsible gambling policies to counter problematic gambling behavior.
- In agreement with Doura-Schawohl, Mark Vander Linden, the Director of Research and Responsible Gaming at the Massachusetts Gaming Commission, emphasized his primary interest to not only seek gambling revenue but also prioritize the care and support of those at risk of problem gambling.
