In this paper, Harrigan and Dixon examine how the same slot machine games with different payback percentages may affect the player’s behavior. Interestingly, slot machines with higher payback percentages (offering a perceived air of fairness for the player: 98% vs. a lower payback of 85%), were more likely to impose the most risk for ensuing gambling problems. In their findings, they argue for the regulations of lower payback percentages (85%), as the higher ones appear to be far more addictive.
“Beaten By The Odds: Gambling With Your Future” | AARP Bulletin
May 1, 2026
By John Rosengren “With new forms of gambling booming in America, some retirees are going bust.” BUL_MAY-JUN_2026