Slot Machines: Addiction, Game Design & Game Revenue Alyssa N. Wilson, Ph.D., BCBA-D Saint Louis University

SLU Gambling Addiction Research Lab SLU Casino replica research lab to: Understand gambling behaviors across spectrum Assist addicts in changing how they interact with gambling What do we know about gambling addiction? What do we know about gambling treatment?

What do we know about gambling addiction?

Gambling treatment? Behavioral therapy to help gamblers get back into their life Learn how to interact with triggers, urges, and cravings differently Ex with young adults (18- 20yo)

Wins – Losses Pre-Treatment (Both Groups Combined)

Wins – Losses Post-Treatment Control Group Treatment Group

Near Misses – Losses Pre-Treatment (Both Groups Combined)

Near Misses – Losses Post-Treatment Control GroupTreatment Group

Conclusion Our data to date show how we can change brain activity following 8 weeks of therapy Key appears to be responsible gambling Treatment providers must be held accountable for treatment outcomes Evidence based practice

THANK YOU Alyssa N Wilson, Ph.D., BCBA-D Saint Louis University