Exploring why slot machine gamblers use the stop button

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Author(s): Chu, Stephanie ; Limbrick-Oldﬁeld, Eve H. ; Murch, W. Spencer ; Clark, Luke

Journal: International Gambling Studies

Year Published: 2017

Date Added: August 01, 2018

The present study examined how players used the stop button in a multi-line slot machine and why they used it. It included 30 undergraduate students and 31 community-based regular slot machine gamblers. Results did not find any evidence that using the stop button was related to having illusions of control. Those who believed the stop button to be an effective feature did not differ in how often they used it compared to those who did not have such beliefs. However, the use of the stop button was related to faster spins. Participants used it more often in situations where its previous use had resulted in a winning outcome.

Citation: Chu, S., Limbrick-Oldfield, E. H., Murch, W. S, & Clark, L. (2017). Why do slot machine gamblers use stopping devices? Findings from a ‘Casino Lab’ experiment. International Gambling Studies. Advance online publication. http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/14459795.2017.1413125

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/14459795.2017.1413125

Keywords: behavioural tracking ; cognition ; Electronic Gambling Machines (EGMs) ; gambling beliefs ; illusion of control ; laboratory ; structural characteristics

Topics: Gambling Cognitions ; Game Types ; Information for Operators ; Slots and VLTs

Conceptual Framework Factors: Types - Structural Characteristics ; Environment - Responsible Gambling ; Psychological Factors ; Cultural - Religion and Other Belief Systems ; Psychological - Judgement and Decision Making

Response Rate: N/A

Study Design: Experimental: NRCT (non-randomized controlled trial)

Geographic Coverage: Canada, British Columbia

Study Population: 30 undergraduate students aged 19 or older (15 males, average age = 22.6), and 31 community members who were regular slot machine gamblers (16 males, average age = 44.3).

Sampling Procedure: The researchers recruited undergraduate students from the University of British Columbia for their pilot study. They recruited a community sample of regular slot machine gamblers via a local website for classified advertisements (Craigslist).