Norsk Tipping Trials Self Diagnosis Tool for Gamblers

Norway's state-controlled gaming operator Norsk Tipping is piloting a new Swedish developed online aid for gamblers which helps them to determine whether they are at risk of developing a gambling problem.

The online self diagnosis tool has been developed by Sweden's Spelinstitutet which specialises in problem gambling research and education, and is being piloted until the end of this year among a number of Scandinavian gaming companies.

"One of the best things we can do to prevent problem gambling is to give players a tool which helps them become aware of their gambling habits," said Torbjorn Almlid, Chief Executive of Norsk Tipping.

The online test comprises a number of questions relating to the players gambling activity in the preceding three months, with players asked to rate their level of agreement or disagreement with statements such as 'Sometimes I play for longer than I had planned' and 'I play even when I should have been doing something else'.

The result of the test is displayed as four different risk meters showing players their overall level of risk, time spent gambling, money spent gambling and negative consequences of gambling. The player is also presented with tips on how to control their gambling and details of organisations providing problem gambling support.

"We encourage responsible gambling and therefore it is important to offer players advice on what they can do and how they can get help if they are in the process of developing, or already have a gambling problem," added Almlid.

Following the pilot test, the final version of the online tool is expected to be officially launched in January 2010.