Mandatory pop-up messages have a modest effect on EGM gambling behaviour in New Zealand

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Author(s): Palmer du Preez, Katie ; Landon, Jason ; Bellringer, Maria E. ; Garrett, Nick ; Abbott, Max W.

Journal: Journal of Gambling Studies

Year Published: 2016

Date Added: October 02, 2017

Pop-up messages are used to minimize harms due to excessive gambling in many countries. In New Zealand, electronic gaming machines (EGMs) are required by law to include a pop-up message feature since 2009. Pop-up messages interrupt gamblers at random time after 30 minutes of continuous gambling. They provide gamblers with information about their current gambling session, the amount of money they had spent, and net wins or losses. After 15 seconds, gamblers can choose to continue or stop gambling. To date, New Zealand is the only country in which EGMs in every gambling venue must include pop-up messages. This study investigated the effects of mandatory pop-up messages on amount of money spent on gambling. It also explored how EGM gamblers interacted with pop-up messages.

Citation: Palmer du Preez, K., Landon, J., Bellringer, M., Garrett, N., & Abbott, M. (2016). The effects of pop-up harm minimisation messages on electronic gaming machine gambling behaviour in New Zealand. Journal of Gambling Studies, 32(4), 1115-1126. doi: 10.1007/s10899-016-9603-0

Article DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10899-016-9603-0

Keywords: Electronic Gambling Machines (EGMs) ; harm minimization ; pop-up messages ; problem gambling

Topics: Gambling Resources ; Game Types ; Information for Operators ; Information for Treatment Providers ; Prevention ; Slots and VLTs

Conceptual Framework Factors: Environment - Responsible Gambling ; Resources - Harm Reduction, Prevention, and Protection

Response Rate: N/A

Study Design: Observational: Cross-sectional

Geographic Coverage: New Zealand

Study Population: Adult EGM gamblers who were aged 20 and above. Participants must have played EGMs at least once during the past 6 months to be eligible.

Sampling Procedure: EGM gamblers were recruited in the vicinity of gambling venues in two cities in New Zealand. Those who consented to participate were contacted within two weeks by telephone to complete the survey.