How Mobile Gambling May Influence Gambling Behaviour and Cognition

Mobile gambling games allow users to play casino games via a portable device such as a smartphone. This can be done anywhere, as long as there is a mobile phone signal and the player has access to funds. In addition, many mobile casinos have a high-quality customer support team to help players with any problems they may encounter. This is one of the reasons why many online gamblers prefer to use mobile gambling games rather than traditional casino sites.

While the popularity of mobile gambling is rapidly increasing, researchers are still struggling to understand how the emergence of this new form of gambling influences behaviour and cognition. This article reviews recent developments in the field and identifies some atypical features of mobile gambling that require particular attention. It also considers how the use of mobile gambling may influence gambling behaviour and harm.

The first section of the article describes a behavioural study that examined how participants interacted with a simulated gambling app on their smartphones. The app used a random ratio schedule of reinforcement and allowed users to place gambles on a virtual game board. Participants completed questionnaires (Gambling Questions, PGSI, GRCS, Barratt Impulsiveness Scale) and a computerised contingency judgement task that probed the illusion of control (an important cognitive bias in gambling). The results showed that participants exhibited considerable perseverance when faced with losses, but that this was linearly related to the amount of money they had invested. Furthermore, they were more likely to continue gambling when the game was in extinction than when it was acquiring.

The development of a mobile gambling game requires careful consideration of the potential risks. While the use of mobile phones can be a great convenience, it is important to consider the factors that will impact the user experience and make sure that the game is safe and secure. It is also important to take into account the legal requirements for the jurisdiction in which you are operating. In this regard, it is advisable to contact a lawyer before launching a mobile gambling game. This will ensure that your app complies with all relevant regulations and will be available to a wide audience. In addition, the game should be tested for functionality and usability. It should run smoothly on the user’s mobile device and be compatible with all browsers. It should also include a strong security system and encryption. This will protect the privacy of the user and prevent hackers from accessing private data or winnings. In addition, the game should be able to accommodate different payment methods, including credit cards, e-wallets like PayPal and Skrill and bank transfers. It should also be free of any advertisements that could distract players from the game experience.