The researchers explored the frantic behaviour that people with problem gambling (PG) have when they are looking for money during a gambling episode. The researchers analyzed data from a study done in Australia about gambling relapse. Twenty-nine adults discussed their gambling relapse experiences during a focus group or an interview. Many participants frantically withdrew small amounts of money from ATMs, credit cards, and their bank accounts while gambling. Having easy to access to money in ATMs and credit cards encouraged them to keep gambling. The researchers discussed a model of how people with PG use all their money and then credit to gamble in a cycle of relapse. Policy makers can put policies in place that encourage banks to identify patterns of frantic use of money and credit, and intervene to prevent further harm.
