Discussion Provides Guidance on Recognizing Problematic Gambling Behavior within Webinar 'Seeking Insight'
United States Gambling Ecoystem: A New Edge Effect
In the realm of problem gambling, Dr. Brett Abarbanel, UNLV's Executive Director for the International Gaming Institute, introduces an intriguing concept: the edge effect. This term, normally associated with the meeting of different ecosystems, now applies to the evolving world of gambling.
"Just like diverse habitats merging, we see gambling merging with games, sports, finance, and technology," Abarbanel explains. "We're not just playing cards anymore; we're dealing with a complex web of merged habitats that encompass various platforms, products, and currencies."
This convergence has made addressing problem gambling among the gaming-prone population challenging. According to Charmaine Hogan, Playtech's Head of Regulatory Affairs, it's essential to identify patterns of risky play early, preventing players from self-exclusion as a last resort, after already experiencing harm.
Modern systems and technologies permit operators to detect these patterns effectively. Early self-exclusion can be avoided thanks to these advanced systems, which identify problematic play patterns weeks before traditional methods. Moreover, these systems empower operators to intervene promptly with personalized messages based on usage patterns, making interventions more relevant and effective.
In her opinion, there are over 70 indicators that operators can use across various parameters to identify risky play. Considering the impact of technology on gambling, Abarbanel emphasizes the need to address a significant issue: defining what gambling actually is. Its meaning may vary considerably between legislators, lawyers, and the general public.
Operators should consider how their products are delivered to the public. The focus should be on fostering sustainable, long-term player bases by integrating long-term responsible gambling practices, including education about problem gambling and preventative measures.
Addressing the edge effect in gambling and standardizing its practices is a complex, ongoing challenge, given the diverse range of gambling activities and the rapid evolution of technology. Nonetheless, through regulatory frameworks, industry standards, and public education, progress is being made in creating a safer, more responsible gaming environment.
Additional Insights:
- Gambling: Generally defined as the act of risking financial loss for a potential gain, covering a variety of activities including sports betting, casino games, and lottery drawings.
- Public Exposure: Delivered to the public through traditional venues such as casinos, race tracks, and betting shops, as well as modern technologies and platforms like online casino games, sports betting websites, fantasy sports, and social gaming apps.
- Modern Technologies: Significantly expanding the reach of gambling, facilitated by internet and mobile devices, digital payments, data analytics, social media, and advertising. However, regulations vary by jurisdiction.
In the ever-expanding sphere of gambling, the integration of modern technology has led to the emergence of casino-and-gambling activities in various digital platforms, placing responsible gambling at the forefront of operators' concerns. With the potential for problem gambling heightened by the merging of gaming, sports, finance, and technology, it's crucial for operators to develop and implement responsible gaming practices, leveraging technology to identify indicators of risky play and intervene promptly with personalized messages.
