Addiction to fruit machines: A preliminary study among young males

Although most sources treat gambling as an adult phenomenon, adolescent gambling is more widespread than is generally recognized, and in some cases may even be pathological. This paper outlines a preliminary study of eight adolescents addicted to playing and gambling on coin-in-the-slot machines (more commonly known as 'fruit machines'). Factors involved in the onset of fruit machine playing are examined along with their alternative gambling activities and associated problems. The role of 'skill' and 'excitement' components in persistent playing are also discussed.