Understanding Gamblers: Brain Waves and Behavioral Patterns

Gambling, a popular and often misunderstood activity, can be broadly classified into two groups: calculating gamblers and luck-reliant gamblers. These groups can further be subdivided into high-risk and low-risk categories. To delve deeper into the fascinating world of gambling, we will explore the behaviors and brain patterns of gamblers through recent studies and insights.

The Two Main Types of Gamblers

The majority of gamblers can be categorized into two primary groups: those who rely on calculated skill and those who rely on sheer luck. Calculating gamblers tend to prefer games that involve some level of skill and strategy, even if this skill only slightly influences the outcome. On the other hand, luck-reliant gamblers are drawn to games where the outcome is determined entirely by chance, such as slot machines or pachisuros.

A Study on Pachisuro Players in Japan

To better understand the behavior and brain patterns of gambling, researchers in Japan conducted a study on pachisuro players, which are essentially slot machines. These machines involve balls falling through a waterfall fashion series of pins and triggering different payouts in the form of more balls. Japan does not permit gambling for money, and winners receive non-monetary rewards such as statues or gifts that can be cashed in later.

Interestingly, there are shops next to pachisuro arcades where players often purchase these items for cash. Despite the fact that players tend to lose in the long run, they remain indifferent to the odds and find the game exciting. The study found that pachisuro playing increased alpha wave activity during long hours of play. Some participants even reported feeling relaxed during the game, despite the EEG evidence suggesting relaxation.

Compulsive Gamblers and Their Unique Behavioral Patterns

About 5% of individuals who gamble admit to being compulsive gamblers. These individuals exhibit constant high levels of beta wave activity, particularly when gambling or even when thinking about gambling. Compulsive gamblers continue to play until they lose, maintaining a high beta wave level even when they have lost everything. A distinguishing feature of compulsive gambling behavior is the need to stake real money. Simply providing a compulsive gambler with a slot machine and tokens is not enough; the player must put up their own cash for a beta wave response to occur.

In one notable experiment, a slot machine was rigged to always pay out more than was put in. However, when the gamblers realized the machine was rigged, they considered it unfair and stopped playing. This highlights the critical role of real stakes in triggering compulsive gambling behavior.

Conclusion

The research on gambling, particularly through EEG studies, provides valuable insights into the behaviors and brain patterns of different types of gamblers. Understanding these patterns can help in developing better strategies for preventing and treating gambling addiction. By further exploring these behavioral and neurological aspects, we can work towards creating more informed and effective interventions for those struggling with gambling disorders.

Keywords: gambling behavior, EEG, gambling addiction