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Related Experiment Videos

Engaging in "illusory control" during repeated risk-taking

M R Dixon1, L J Hayes, R E Ebbs

  • 1University of Nevada, USA. mdixonts@aol.com

Psychological Reports
|January 29, 1999
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

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Gamblers may continue playing games of chance, like roulette, because they believe they can influence random outcomes. Participants paid more for illusory control, especially when winning, suggesting perceived control drives continued gambling behavior.

Area of Science:

  • Behavioral Economics
  • Cognitive Psychology
  • Gambling Research

Background:

  • Risk-taking behavior is common in games of chance.
  • Individuals often perceive control over random outcomes.
  • Understanding the psychological drivers of gambling is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the extent to which gamblers will pay for illusory control.
  • To examine the relationship between perceived control and gambling behavior.
  • To explore psychological factors influencing continued gambling despite unfavorable odds.

Main Methods:

  • Recruited five undergraduate roulette players.
  • Assessed willingness to pay for illusory control (choosing numbers).
  • Analyzed the relationship between payment for control and player winnings.

Related Experiment Videos

Main Results:

  • All participants paid for illusory control over roulette outcomes.
  • The amount paid was linearly related to the player's winnings.
  • Perceived control was a significant factor in participants' engagement.

Conclusions:

  • The desire for illusory control may explain persistent gambling behavior.
  • Financial incentives (winnings) amplify the willingness to pay for perceived control.
  • Psychological factors, not just odds, significantly influence gambling decisions.