Abstract

The present study examined whether near-miss frequency and self-esteem influence gambling persistence in a simulated slot machine task. Near-miss outcomes, which appear close to a win but still result in a loss, have been shown to increase motivation to continue gambling. Participants completed a computerized slot machine task in which near-miss frequency was experimentally manipulated (0%, 15%, or 30%). Prior to the task, participants received false performance feedback intended to temporarily increase or decrease self-esteem. Gambling persistence was measured using the number of spins during an extinction phase in which no wins were available. Total credits remaining at the end of the task served as a secondary behavioral indicator of overall resource expenditure. Results indicated that near-miss frequency significantly influenced persistence and credits remaining. Participants in the 30% near-miss condition persisted the longest during extinction and ended with the fewest credits remaining, suggesting greater overall engagement with the task. The self-esteem manipulation did not significantly influence persistence or credits remaining, and no interaction between near-miss frequency and self-esteem was observed. These findings support prior research demonstrating that structural features of gambling, such as near-miss outcomes, can influence persistence even without reinforcement.

Advisor

Garcia, Amber

Department

Psychology

Disciplines

Cognitive Psychology | Experimental Analysis of Behavior

Keywords

gambling persistence, near-miss effect, self-esteem, gambling cognitions

Publication Date

2026

Degree Granted

Bachelor of Arts

Document Type

Senior Independent Study Thesis

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© Copyright 2026 Thomas Gielow