Utilizing a computerized video poker simulation for the collection of data on gambling behavior

The current paper presents data collected utilizing a computerized video poker simulation that was published in Behavior Research Methods, Instruments, and Computers by Dixon, MacLin, and Hayes (1999). To date no published studies have demonstrated the utility of the simulation or presented the possible data that may emerge from using the program. Eleven undergraduates played the simulation for 100 trials each for course extra-credit and the opportunity to win additional monetary compensation. Results suggest that there are regularities within and across participants on both temporal and subjective dependent variables during their play of the video poker game. These variables included response latencies, decision-making times, and subjective probability estimations. Implications of these data for the successful treatment of pathological gamblers and suggestions for further behavioral research on gambling are discussed.