Sports betting operator PointsBet has linked up with the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) in the US to launch a new research initiative focused on responsible gambling decision making for online gambling operators.
The scheme will look at how industry, government and clinical stakeholders would respond to certain scenarios in which a fictitious online betting customer demonstrates potentially problematic gambling behaviour.
An anonymous and voluntary survey, designed by PointsBet in collaboration with NCPG and the Massachusetts Council on Gaming and Health, will be issued to attendees of the National Conference on Gambling Addiction & Responsible Gambling 2022.
The survey will feature three fictional customers demonstrating potentially problematic gambling behaviour, with those attendees that take part to be asked to take on the role of an operator and determine the best course of action for the customer.
“With the rapid expansion of legalised sports betting across the US, a commitment to responsible gambling today will have a direct impact on the future health of players and sustainability of the industry,” PointsBet USA chief exectuive Johnny Aitken said.
“Navigating how to identify and address problem gambling is a complex and sensitive issue, and operators are regularly faced with how to best respond to customers who are exhibiting problematic gambling behaviour.
“Through this research project, we’re aiming to gain more insights on the thought process that goes into finding solutions for those impacted by problem gambling as well as better help inform operator decision making on this matter.”
NCPG executive director Keith Whyte added: “Online gambling operators are required to provide various responsible gambling tools. These tools should be regularly reviewed and evaluated by stakeholders to ensure they are adequately serving customers.
“Our hope is that the results of this survey will spark dialogue amongst operators as well as regulators, treatment providers, researchers, and problem gambling advocates to help inform the responsible gambling decisions that online gambling operators face.”
