The relationship between scratch card near-misses and gambling behaviour

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Author(s): Stange, Madison ; Dixon, Mike J.

Journal: Journal of Gambling Studies

Year Published: 2020

Date Added: June 11, 2020

In this study, the researchers investigated how bet size and the illusion of control affect gamblers’ decision to buy more scratch cards after experiencing a loss or a near-miss. The researchers recruited 138 undergraduate students who had played scratch cards in the past. Participants played two scratch cards. The first card had a win. The second card resulted in a loss or near-miss. Participants were then offered a chance to buy a third scratch card with all their winnings from the first card. The results showed that having a near-miss increased participants’ urge to keep gambling. However, there were no differences in the number of participants who bought a third card after a near-miss or a loss. Also, the illusion of control did not affect participants’ decision to buy more scratch cards after a near-miss.

Citation: Stange, M., & Dixon, M. J. (2020). Scratch card near-miss outcomes increase the urge to gamble, but do not impact further gambling behaviour: A pre-registered replication and extension. Journal of Gambling Studies. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10899-020-09932-7

Article DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10899-020-09932-7

Keywords: gambling urges ; illusion of control ; near misses ; scratch cards

Topics: Gambling Cognitions ; Information for Operators

Conceptual Framework Factors: Gambling Types ; Types - Structural Characteristics ; Psychological Factors ; Psychological - Judgement and Decision Making

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

Geographic Coverage: Canada, Ontario

Study Population: Undergraduate students attending the University of Waterloo and part of the Research Experience Group. (N = 138)

Sampling Procedure: Convenience sampling: The researchers recruited participants from the University of Waterloo Research Experience Group.

Study Funding:

This study was funded by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) and an Alexander Graham Bell Canada Graduate Scholarship.