February 3, 2025 3 min read

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UNLV Researchers Push for a New Approach to Responsible Gambling

Alan Feldman, head of strategy at the UNLV International Gaming Institute, pointed out that the term "responsible gambling" has come under increasing scrutiny in recent years

Las Vegas experts are pushing the gambling industry to reconsider how it handles responsible gaming. They stress the need for better communication and stronger consumer protections. At a recent conference, experts from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) pointed out that the talk about responsible gambling has not worked well. This has led to wrong ideas and few players getting involved.

Beyond Pamphlets and Hotlines: Why Casinos Must Do More for Player Safety

Alan Feldman, who leads strategy at the UNLV International Gaming Institute, noted that people have started to question the term “responsible gambling” more in recent years. He said this phrase might shame players by hinting they are not being responsible instead of recognizing the struggles of those battling gambling addiction. Feldman proposed a move to more welcoming terms like “player safety” or “safer gambling,” which are becoming popular in other places in Europe, reported CDC Gaming.

Feldman says the main problem is that responsible gaming programs use passive methods like information pamphlets and phone numbers to call. He emphasized that real responsible gambling efforts should actively help players keep things balanced, affordable, and be aware of the risks.

Most US casinos rely on signs and staff training to spot problem gambling signs. However, Feldman said this wait-and-see approach does not do much to stop gambling harm before it starts. He suggested industry-wide steps to encourage players to set their own betting limits, learn more about gambling, and create an environment that sees gambling as fun, not as a way to make money.

The gambling sector could also improve by being upfront about gambling risks. Feldman proposed that casinos should do more than just show helpline numbers at the bottom of ads. They should include clear warnings about losing money, like the cautions used for stock market investments.

Study Finds Sports Bettors at Greater Risk for Addiction and Substance Abuse

As more people in the US bet on sports, psychologist Shane Kraus has studied behaviors linked to this type of gambling. His research shows that people who bet on sports have a higher chance of developing gambling problems than those who do not. People who often bet on sports are also more likely to have problems with alcohol and cannabis, which adds to the risks.

Kraus also learned that while some sports bettors lose interest after a few years, those who mix betting with drug use often end up with long-term gambling issues. This means that programs to promote safe gambling should consider broader addiction patterns instead of just looking at gambling by itself.

As people talk more about gambling addiction and mental health in the US, experts highlight the need to educate and take action. Instead of outlawing certain betting types like parlays, industry bigwigs should work on helping the public understand odds and probability better.

With phrases like “safer gambling” catching on worldwide, the US gambling scene might need to change its approach to keep up with what works best. Pushing for friends to look out for each other — like having a gambling buddy system similar to designated drivers for drinking — could also be a move in the right direction.

Silvia has dabbled in all sorts of writing – from content writing for social media to movie scripts. She has a Bachelor's in Screenwriting and experience in marketing and producing documentary films. With her background as a customer support agent within the gambling industry, she brings valuable insight to the Gambling News writers’ team.

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