Discussion at our platform: Do current gambling measures intended for responsible play effectively address the issue? Opinions from industry experts.
U.S. Gambling Landscape: Taking Responsible Gaming Seriously
Casinos, iGaming, and Sports Betting Go Responsible
In the face of the booming gambling industry, responsible gaming initiatives have gained significant traction. From the American Gaming Association's (AGA) "Have a Game Plan. Bet Responsibly" to MGM Resorts' GameSense and FanDuel's My Spend RG program, there's a noticeable surge in investments in this crucial area. But just how effective are these programs, and do they genuinely reach their intended audience?
Skepticism and Evolution
Jennifer Shatley, executive director of the Responsible Online Gaming Association (ROGA), questions if enough resources are poured into responsible gaming initiatives. During a roundtable discussion with our site, she expressed her belief that constant evolution and expansion of efforts should be the norm. In her 25 years of researching responsible gaming, Shatley commended the recent acceleration in progress but stressed the need for continued innovation.
ROGA's Crusade
Founded by Bally's, BetMGM, Bet365, DraftKings, Fanatics, FanDuel, and Penn Entertainment, ROGA has pledged $20 million to promote responsible online gaming. This commitment includes funding independent research, promoting best practices, and driving consumer and industry education and awareness efforts.
A Complex Landscape Requires a Multifaceted Approach
Alan Feldman, Director of Strategic Initiatives, International Gaming Institute, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and an American Gaming Association Hall of Fame member, emphasized the varying facets of gaming-commercial, tribal, and iGaming- that necessitate a diverse approach to responsible gaming. While strides have been made in technologically advanced responsible gaming programs, Feldman insisted that a one-size-fits-all solution is unlikely.
Engaging Players for Success
A significant challenge facing responsible gaming initiatives is player engagement. Jennifer Shatley noted that many players perceive these programs as catering solely to those with serious gambling issues, and as a result, do not use the provided tools. To counter this misconception, Shatley suggested making responsible gaming programs more appealing and relevant to players, thereby increasing engagement and preventing harm across the entire player base.
The Role of Regulators
Brianne Doura-Schawohl, founder of Doura-Schawohl Consulting and a Board member of the Kindbridge Research Institute, recognized that the gaming industry has increasingly embraced responsible gaming initiatives. However, Doura-Schawohl pointed out that regulators still need greater clarity on their roles and responsibilities to effectively reduce gambling-related harm.
Breaking Barriers and Educating Younger Generations
Another critical aspect of progress is the education of younger generations about the importance of responsible gambling. Feldman drew attention to the positive impact that early education can have on reducing gambling-related harm and stigma, ultimately fostering healthier attitudes towards gaming and increasing the utilization of responsible gaming tools.
Parental Involvement
Parents play a crucial role in their children's understanding of responsible gambling. Feldman underscored the significance of open conversations about gambling risks and the necessity of parents serving as gatekeepers to their children's gaming experiences.
In conclusion, the U.S. gambling industry's commitment to responsible gaming is gaining momentum, with initiatives and partnerships geared towards education, awareness, and research-based strategies. However, challenges remain in player engagement, addressing emerging issues in the online gambling market, and fostering a collaborative approach across various sectors of the industry. By continuing to adapt, innovate, and educate, responsible gaming initiatives hope to achieve lasting, positive outcomes.
Casinos, iGaming, and Sports Betting are investing in responsible gambling initiatives, such as the "Have a Game Plan. Bet Responsibly" program from the American Gaming Association, in an effort to combat problem gambling.
Jennifer Shatley, from the Responsible Online Gaming Association, believes that the industry needs to constantly evolve and expand these initiatives for them to be effective and reach the intended audience.
