Addiction does not just refer to those who rely on chemical substances such as alcohol or drugs. In fact, it is estimated that there are between 350,000 and 700,000 problem gamblers in the UK. A gambling addiction is one of the most devastating and destructive addictions to have – it is known as the ‘secret’ addiction. Those affected by gambling addiction can often feed their habit without anyone else knowing about it as there are no physical signs or symptoms that would indicate a problem. It is often the case that family members and friends have no idea of their loved one’s problems until these individuals are in deep financial trouble.
Trance-Like State
Researchers have now discovered that some people enter a trance-like state while playing slot machines. They now believe that those who do are more likely to suffer from gambling problems. This trance-like state is referred to as the ‘slot machine zone’ and results in players entering an immersed state. They are then able to escape from certain emotions such as a low mood, stress or boredom.
The research was carried out by the Centre for Gambling Research at the University of British Columbia (UBC). It was found that certain people lose track of time and the world around them when they play on slot machines. Lead author of the study, Spencer Murch, said, “Slot machines are one of the most popular forms of gambling worldwide, but they are also the form most consistently linked to gambling addiction. By understanding why slot machines are the preferred game for problem gamblers through this research, we have the potential to improve gambling policy and to design slot machines that promote more responsible play.”
Study
During the study, researchers examined two groups of participants. One group was made up of undergraduate students from UBC, most of whom had never actually played a slot machine before. The other group was made up of regular slot machine users.
Each participant was asked to play a slot machine for thirty minutes in the UBC casino lab. The slot machines had been modified for the experiment with panels mounted to the side that had moving shapes. During their time on the slot machine, participants were asked to press a button whenever a white circle on the panel changed to a red square.
During play, changes in heart rate were measured, and once they were finished, participants were asked whether they felt as though they had lost track of time or if they were in a trance. Those who admitted to feeling higher levels of immersion during play were found to have a higher risk of problem gambling.
Some of the participants from the group of regular slot machine players said they lost track of surroundings and time while playing and were more likely to have missed a changing shape on the panel.
Senior author of the study, Professor Luke Clark, said, “This confirms there is indeed a link between gambling addiction and the so-called slot machine zone. There is potential for slot machines to be designed in a way that promotes more responsible use by disrupting the slot machine zone state. Since static signs and stickers on slot machines are unlikely to distract immersed players, the messages should be eye-catching and as close as possible to the slots’ reels.”
Treatment for Gambling Addiction
If you are worried about your own or a loved one’s gambling addiction, contact us here at Middlegate today. We can help by putting you in touch with a suitable treatment provider in your area. Our service is completely free and confidential, so you have nothing to lose and everything to gain by getting in touch.
Source:
- http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-4247192/Slot-machines-lull-gambling-addicts-trance.html
The post Research Shows ‘Slot Machine Zone’ Links to Problem Gambling appeared first on Alcohol Rehab London & Drug Addiction Treatment London UK.