Lyons, C. A., & Ghezzi, P. M. (1995).
Wagering on a large scale: Relationships between public gambling and game manipulations in two state lotteries.
Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis,
28, 127-137.
The effects of game adjustments on public wagering were examined
during the first 523 draws of Oregon's "Megabucks"
lottery and the first 540 draws of Arizona's "The Pick"
lottery. Oregon's lottery was modified five times during this
period, and Arizona's lottery underwent four modifications.
Public wagering was not related to decreases in the odds of
winning in either state. Wagering increased in both states
following the introduction of a minimum $1 million jackpot.
Wagering also increased following a change in game frequency from
weekly to semiweekly draws. Sales trends in both states suggest
that over the period examined, larger jackpots were required to
maintain previous levels of lottery play. These data suggest that
public participation in gambling can be manipulated by state
lottery commissions through adjustments in lottery contingencies.
DESCRIPTORS: wagering, state lotteries, game manipulations,
naturalistic observation