Gambling operators are expected to have a strong corporate social responsibility (CSR) policy. This includes having responsible gambling (RG) measures to prevent or reduce gambling harms. However, operators may not install effective RG measures as it goes against maximizing their profits. In this study, the researchers examined if gambling operators in Germany install effective CSR policy. To test this, they looked at the contents of RG programs from seven slot machine hall operators. They also surveyed 512 people seeking treatment for gambling problems who played slot machines. All gambling operators included the mandatory RG measures. But, only two operators included a direct RG measure that was voluntary. No operator included tools to limit gambling or help people to self-exclude.
From the survey, less than half of the participants reported that staff noticed their gambling losses and problem gambling. Only seven participants reported that staff strongly discouraged them from further gambling. Many participants reported that staff encouraged them to continue to gamble. Furthermore, only five participants reported that staff approached them and provided information on gambling help resources. The researchers concluded that the CSR policies are not effective. An external decision-maker may be needed to oversee CSR in gambling operators.
