Catharine Winstanley

Flashy lights, tunes boost gambling risks: Study

The Times Colonist featured a UBC study that found lights and sounds from casino games alter decision-making and encourage risky gambling behaviour. “They’re not just harmless little tunes just playing […]

Nov 2, 2018

Slot machines flash and ring to prompt more bets

Cosmos Magazine reported on UBC psychology research that examined betting behaviour. The research, led by Catharine Winstanley and Mariya V. Cherkasova, found participants were more likely to make riskier bets […]

Oct 30, 2018

THC makes rats lazy, less willing to try cognitively demanding tasks: UBC study

THC makes rats lazy, less willing to try cognitively demanding tasks: UBC study

New research from the University of British Columbia suggests there may be some truth to the belief that marijuana use causes laziness— at least in rats.

Aug 23, 2016

Head games: How the mind works when gambling

Head games: How the mind works when gambling

Tiny ‘rat casino’ offers insight into possible treatments for compulsive gambling.

Feb 18, 2014

Scientists reduce behaviours associated with problem gambling in rats

Scientists reduce behaviours associated with problem gambling in rats

With the help of a rat casino, UBC brain researchers have successfully reduced behaviours in rats that are commonly associated with compulsive gambling in humans.

Oct 29, 2013