Chances, trances, and lots of slots: Gambling motives and consumption experiences

Journal/Book: J Leisure Res. 1997; 29: 2775 S. Quincy Street, Suite 300, Arlington, VA 22206-2204. Natl Recreation Park Assn. 380-406.

Abstract: Why do gamblers spend their leisure time and money on gambling? The motives of gamblers are explored using data collected in a casino via ethnographic participant observation. The interpretation presented here combines data with insights from prior research and theories of gambling and experiential consumption. Gambling motives are presented in a three-dimensional typology showing that motives for consuming gambling experiences include learning and evaluating, seeking a ''rush'', self-definition, risk-taking, cognitive self-classification, emotional self-classification, competing, and communing. The research thus advances understanding of gambling beyond previously hypothesized economic, symbolic, and hedonic motives. Although created in a gambling domain, the typology presented has more general implications for how leisure consumption is treated both theoretically and empirically in future research.

Note: Article Cotte J, Univ Connecticut, Sch Business, Dept Mkt, U-41M, 368 Fairfield Rd, Storrs,CT 06269 USA

Keyword(s): CONSUMER RESEARCH; COMPULSIVE CONSUMPTION; POSSIBLE SELVES; LEISURE; POSSESSIONS; BEHAVIOR; EXPLORATION; ADDICTION; STRATEGY; TYPOLOGY

Zurück | Weiter