Abstract
A sample of 484 gamblers (241 males) viewed simulations of casino settings varying in their macro design (playground vs. gaming) and their micro décor elements (lighting, human crowding, color, machine clustering, and layout symmetry). The décor element levels were manipulated to reflect information load (e.g., flashing lights afford more information than do static lights). The participants provided three measures for each simulation: at-risk gambling intention, pleasure, and restoration. Overall, the playground design and females yielded higher scores on each measure than did the gaming design and males. Also, the relationship between pleasure and at-risk gambling intention was fully mediated by restoration. The effects of information load on the three dependent measures were complex as they depended on the macro design and the gender of the participant. These results are discussed within a framework where affect and cognition mediate atmospheric effects on gambling.
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