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Does size really matter? A review of the role of stake and prize levels in relation to gambling-related harm

Author: Jonathan Parke (Responsible Gambling Trust) and Adrian Parke (University of Lincoln) Published: December 2020
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Summary

This paper from the Responsible Gambling Trust and the University of Lincoln reviews the evidence on how stake and prize levels in gambling games affect gambling behaviour and gambling-related harm.

Topics covered

  • impact of stake and prize levels on gambling behaviour
  • methodological limitations of existing research
  • potential mechanisms linking stakes and prizes to harm

Key findings

Overall, the relationship between stakes, prizes and harm is complex. The review finds limited conclusive evidence on how stake and prize levels specifically impact gambling-related harm.
More robust research is needed on real gambling behaviour. The review suggest player-focused policies may be more promising than blanket restrictions on game features.

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