BetMGM commits $180,000 to new ICRG study into advertising and problem gambling
US sportsbook to work with internationally recognized group on “groundbreaking” research project
BetMGM has pledged $180,000 to a new International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG) research project looking at the impact advertising has on problem gambling rates.
Details of the project have not yet been confirmed, however, the ICRG as an organization works to advance the cause of responsible gambling (RG) via research and education-led initiatives, aiming to better industry standards.
The ICRG has revealed a request to tender proposals from research bodies to conduct the evidence-based study, which will be published in peer-reviewed scientific journals.
ICRG president Arthur Paikowsky welcomed the “historic contribution” from BetMGM, lauding the potential benefits to the sector from the research project.
“Findings from this evidence-based research study will allow us to better identify potential risks and guide best practices for the gaming industry,” Paikowsky said.
“We commend BetMGM for partnering with us to better inform the public, operators, regulators, legislators, and the media,” he added.
BetMGM already operates its own responsible gambling education program through the GameSense initiative, developed and licensed to BetMGM’s parent company MGM Resorts by the British Columbia Lottery Corporation.
Speaking about the impact of the ICRG research on its own operations, BetMGM senior manager of RG Richard Taylor cited the need to augment these sorts of programs further through wider initiatives.
“Investment into research around responsible gaming is key to our continued education and commitment to providing best-in-class experiences and programs, as well as to ensuring a sustainable industry.
“This groundbreaking research will not only provide valuable learnings to BetMGM but will also serve as a guide for the industry and key stakeholders,” Taylor added.
Elsewhere, BetMGM’s other parent entity, Entain, acting through its Entain Foundation US non-profit responsible gambling education organization, has confirmed the launch of a new esports mental wellness campaign in partnership with INTENTA.
The #MindYourGame campaign will use esports to encourage participants to build a healthy relationship with gaming in order to prioritize their mental health and wellbeing.
It will reach students, parents, educators, and professionals at 450+ high schools and esports clubs in California, New York, Texas, Oklahoma, Ohio, and 35 other states throughout the US.
The campaign also works to champion the benefits of gaming and esports, including greater engagement in STEM subjects as well as potential career opportunities, and provide support to individuals suffering from potentially problematic gaming.
It will also see the delivery of an esports educational series called Gaming World, which will include tools and worksheets on reflective thinking to facilitate mindfulness.
The syllabus for the series includes how gaming affects the brain, the risks of in-game overspending, and the importance of balance in esports.