Responsible Gaming

Responsible gaming programs are intended to prevent or reduce potential gambling-related harms (Blaszczynski, Ladouceur, & Shaffer, 2004). Examples of such programs range from brochures about disordered gambling to helping gamblers keep track of money wagered through “smart cards.” But are these programs effective? This May 2010 edition of Issues & Insights looks at a study published by Drs. Lia Nower and Alex Blaszczynski which demonstrates that rigorous scientific research is vital to determining the effectiveness of a responsible gaming strategy.

Responsible gaming programs have come a long way in the past 50 years. As the body of research on gambling disorders, prevention, treatment and recovery increases, the gaming industry has implemented policies and programs to promote responsible gaming and to make resources available to anyone who has a gambling disorder.

Download this fact sheet to see an overview of responsible gaming milestones.

“Talking with Children about Gambling” is a research-based guide designed to help parents, as well as others who work with youth, deter children from gambling and recognize possible warning signs of problem gambling and other risky behaviors.