The Effects of Responsible Gambling Pop-Up Messages on Gambling Behaviors and Cognitions: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Pop-up messages utilized by gambling operators are normally presented to gamblers during sessions in order prevent excessive and/or help the appraisal of maladaptive cognitions. However, effect such on behavior and cognitions has not previously been synthesized quantitatively. Consequently, a meta-analysis estimating efficacy pop-up was conducted. A systematic literature search with no time constraints performed Web Science, PsychInfo, Medline, PsychNET, Cochrane Library. Search terms included “gambling,” “pop-up,” “reminder,” “warning message,” “dynamic message.” Studies based randomized controlled trials, quasi-experimental designs pre-post studies reporting both pre- post-pop-up data were included. Two authors independently extracted using pre-defined fields including quality assessment. total 18 random effects model Hedges' g . The pop-ups = 0.413 for cognitive measures (95% CI 0.115–0.707) 0.505 behavioral 0.256–0.746). For outcomes there significant between-study heterogeneity which could be explained setting (laboratory vs. naturalistic) or sample (gambler non-gamblers). It is concluded that provide moderate short-term play an important role operators' portfolio responsible tools.