Better off alone? An analysis of behavioral characteristics of electronic gaming machine players

Which is the effect of social interactions on individuals’ gambling behavior? The answer research provides is contradictory: form one side it is suggested that gamblers playing alone are more likely to increase their gambling frequency and betting risk when compared to players who gamble in group, often paired with a rise in aggressive behavior. On the other hand, studies showed that the mere presence of other players might encourage gambling, increasing stakes and shortening betting intervals. This work explores the behavioral characteristics of electronic gaming machines players along different game events and analyses the influence of social interactions on their gambling behavior. The study, conducted in slot halls, involves ethnographic observation and the analysis of gamblers’ facial micro-expressions through a face recognition technology. Results reveal that only certain game events elicit manifest behavioral responses in players. Further, findings show that the presence of other players might positively influence the gambling conduct, constituting an element of prevention in the onset of negative valence behavioral responses. The discussion focuses on the mechanisms aimed at favoring social interactions during gambling.