This study explored the characteristics and experiences of gamblers excluded from casinos in Switzerland, where exclusion can be voluntary or imposed. Data were from three Swiss casinos covering the period from 2006 to 2015. Many gamblers voluntarily self-excluded because they had lost too much money. Just over one-third of the gamblers who self-excluded did so to prevent gambling problems. During their exclusion period, most gamblers found other ways to continue gambling such as visiting casinos in neighbouring countries. The main reasons gamblers wanted their exclusion lifted were to be able to visit a casino again and social reasons. These findings suggest that exclusions may be ineffective in enforcing most gamblers to stop gambling.
