Centre for Gambling Research

Study finds gamblers ignore important information when placing bets

People with gambling problems are less likely to consider important information that could prevent them from losing, according to new research published today from the UBC’s Centre for Gambling Research.

Dec 3, 2020

Half a billion bets teach UBC algorithm how to identify problem gamblers

UBC researchers have successfully used machine learning to identify online gamblers whose betting behaviour could indicate a gambling problem.

Nov 9, 2020

Gamblers under the influence of alcohol place higher bets after losses

When gamblers get tipsy, they tend to follow a losing spin of the roulette wheel with higher bets than sober gamblers do.

Nov 13, 2019

UBC study finds siblings of problem gamblers also impulsive, prone to risk-taking

Biological siblings of people with gambling disorder also display markers of increased impulsivity and risk-taking, according to a new UBC psychology study. The findings, published today in Neuropsychopharmacology, suggest people with gambling disorder – a psychiatric term for serious gambling problems – may have pre-existing genetic vulnerabilities to the illness.

Oct 9, 2019

Loot boxes look a lot like gambling, UBC study finds

Loot boxes, an increasingly popular feature of modern video games, are attracting gamers who share the beliefs and behaviours of problem gamblers, new UBC research has found.

May 1, 2019

New funding extends impact of UBC’s Centre for Gambling Research

A renewed investment of $1.36 million over five years from the B.C. government and BCLC will allow the Centre for Gambling Research at UBC to continue its research to reduce harms related to gambling.

Mar 13, 2019

UBC study links slot-machine addiction to immersion in the game

Gamblers who feel like they enter into a trance while playing slot machines are more likely to have gambling problems, according to new research from the Centre for Gambling Research at UBC.

Feb 20, 2017

The surprising psychological benefits— and risks— of Pokémon Go

Pokémon Go fever has officially taken over. Nintendo’s new augmented reality smartphone game is enticing millions of players to get outside and walk around in search of characters and reportedly helping people with depression and social anxiety.

Jul 22, 2016

New centre to analyze problem gambling

Probing the psychology of gambling, helping problem gamblers and enhancing gaming policy are key goals for the new Centre for Gambling Research.

Nov 12, 2014

Opening of the Centre for Gambling Research at UBC

Event: The official opening of the Centre for Gambling Research at UBC and tour of its “Casino lab” Date: Wednesday, November 12, 2014 Time: 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. Location: […]

Nov 10, 2014

Head games: How the mind works when gambling

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

Feb 18, 2014