Las Vegas Experts Call for New Take on Responsible Gambling
Experts in Las Vegas are urging the gambling industry to rethink how it promotes responsible gaming and calling for clearer communication and stronger consumer protections.
LISTEN TO THIS ARTICLE:At a recent conference, specialists from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) spoke of the shortcomings of current responsible gambling efforts, which they say have failed to engage players effectively and have led to widespread misconceptions.
The Need for Active Measures
Alan Feldman, a strategic leader at the UNLV International Gaming Institute, noted that the term “responsible gambling” has come under scrutiny in recent years. He explained that the phrase could unintentionally shame individuals struggling with gambling addiction, as it implies personal failure rather than acknowledging the complexities of compulsive gambling. He suggested adopting more inclusive language, such as “player safety” or “safer gambling,” which have gained traction in parts of Europe.
Feldman also criticized the industry’s reliance on passive measures such as pamphlets and helpline numbers. He argued that truly effective responsible gambling programs should take an active role in helping players maintain control, stay within their financial limits, and understand the risks involved.
Most land-based casinos in the US currently focus on staff training and signage to identify problem gambling behaviors. However, Feldman believes this reactive strategy does little to prevent gambling harm before it occurs. Instead, he advocates for industry-wide initiatives that encourage players to set personal betting limits, increase gambling literacy, and foster an environment where gambling is seen as entertainment rather than a financial strategy.
Additionally, Feldman spoke of the importance of transparency in communicating gambling risks. He suggested that instead of displaying helpline numbers in advertisements, casinos should incorporate clear warnings about potential financial losses, similar to disclosures used in stock market investments.
More Responsible Gambling News
Study Finds Increased Risk for Sports Bettors
As sports betting continues to grow in popularity across the U.S., psychologist Shane Kraus has been researching behaviors associated it. His findings indicate that sports bettors face a significantly higher risk of developing gambling addictions. Additionally, frequent sports bettors are more likely to struggle with substance abuse, particularly alcohol and cannabis, which compounds their overall risk.
Kraus’s research also suggests that while some sports bettors lose interest over time, those who combine gambling with substance use are more likely to develop long-term addiction issues. This shows the need for responsible gambling programs to address broader addiction patterns rather than focusing solely on gambling behaviors.
RELATED TOPICS: Responsible Gambling
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