Unleashing the Edge in Gambling: A New Perspective on Diversity
"Discussion Forum Offering Guidance: Recognizing Compulsive Gambling Habits"
On Tuesday, during the "Seeking Understanding" webinar, Dr. Brett Abarbanel shed some intriguing light on problem gambling through an unexpected lens - the "edge effect." This term, conventionally associated with ecological conditions, now takes a distinctive twist in the realm of gambling.
Abarbanel, the Executive Director of the International Gaming Institute at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, likened the edge effect to the ongoing fusion of gambling, games, sports, and more. As diverse technologies, consumer platforms, viewership channels, data-driven products, and currencies intermingle, we witness a version of the edge effect in our world, Abarbanel explained.
This amalgamation of overlapping sectors creates a unique blend, much like species and habitats merging in an ecological edge effect, paving the way for an intricate and dynamic gaming ecosystem. However, this complexity makes it challenging to address problems faced by those with gambling disorders holistically.
Charmaine Hogan, Head of Regulatory Affairs at Playtech, emphasized the importance of identifying patterns of risky play early, before players resort to self-exclusion, often evidence of harm. With advanced technology at operators' disposal, Hogan asserted that it is now possible to identify risks earlier, thanks to modern systems that detect patterns of risky play even weeks before traditional methods. This early detection allows for swift intervention, a critical window for helping players avoid harm.
Hogan further noted that more than 70 indicators can be employed across various parameters to recognize players with high-risk behaviors. Effective technology enables operators to take proactive steps, providing interventions tailored to individual players for optimal impact. Research has shown that personalized interventions are generally more effective than generic notifications.
Abarbanel raised another crucial issue - defining what constitutes gambling. She pointed out that the meaning may differ significantly between legislators, lawyers, and the general public. Operators need to be mindful of the delivery methods of their products, striving to build a sustainable, long-term player base through responsible gaming practices that foster awareness about problem gambling.
In other words, rather than aiming for quick, transient customer acquisition, operators should focus on creating a lasting, responsible player community that benefits from long-term, sustainable gambling practices. So, as we traverse the ever-evolving edge effect in gambling, let's remember to cherish the diversity it brings, embrace the innovations unleashed, and promote a healthier, more responsible gaming experience for all.
- In the context of the merging of various sectors in gambling, Dr. Abarbanel refers to this as having an 'ecological edge effect', similar to species and habitats in nature.
- Abarbanel suggests that operators, when defining gambling, should consider all delivery methods and strive to build a sustainable player base through responsible gambling practices.
- Charmaine Hogan highlights the importance of identifying patterns of risky play using technology, allowing for early intervention and a critical window for helping players avoid harm.
- With over 70 indicators, effective technology enables operators to provide personalized interventions, which research shows are generally more effective than generic notifications.
