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Predictors of irrational thinking in regular slot machine gamblers
1Department of Psychology, University of Adelaide, Australia. sapdf@sigma.sss.flinders.edu.au
The Journal of Psychology
|April 15, 2000
Summary
Gamblers often exhibit irrational thinking, with 75% of cognitions being irrational. This irrationality correlates with increased risk-taking in slot machine gambling, not financial outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Behavioral Science
- Gambling Research
Background:
- Irrational thinking is a proposed factor in maintaining gambling behavior.
- Previous research indicates a link between cognitions and slot machine engagement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the validity of irrational thinking in regular gamblers.
- To identify predictors of irrational thinking in this population.
Main Methods:
- A sample of 20 regular gamblers from the general community participated.
- Gambling-related cognitions were assessed using a speaking-aloud approach.
- Cognitions were analyzed for irrationality and correlated with gambling behaviors.
Main Results:
- 75% of gambling-related cognitions were identified as irrational.
- Irrationality was not related to money won or lost but positively correlated with risk-taking.
- Common irrational beliefs involved perceived control/predictability and machine personification.
Conclusions:
- Findings support the significant role of irrational cognitions in slot machine gambling.
- Beliefs about control and personification of machines are key irrationalities.
- Women gamblers were more prone to machine personification than men.