Work stress and problem gambling among Chinese casino employees in Macau

Participants

Instruments

Reasons for entering the casino industry

All were allured to work for casino by attractive salary, and the apparently bright prospect of the casino industry in Macau. For those who chose to work in Las Vegas style casinos, they were eager to discover how western gaming management would be different from Asian style. They conceived working at international gaming corporations would open their eyes. Many expected a comfortable working environment because casinos appeared to be glamorous.

Attractive salary

All admitted that attractive salary was the primary source of job satisfaction. A middle-aged dealer explained, “With a junior high education, I could hardly get 60 percent of my salary if I quit my job. I am happy with the incomes.” Another dealer said, “I earn a pretty good salary which allows me to have comfortable living conditions. I am paying for a small flat by monthly installments. I plan to buy a larger apartment in the future.” Many pointed out that the land had appreciated enormously and the cost of living had risen considerably since gambling monopoly was abolished in 2002. They would not be able to cope with price rises and inflation without the relatively well-paid job at casino.

Organizational facilities

Some were satisfied with the organizational facilities and employee welfare (e.g. meals, employees’ private lockers and resting corners). The American casino employees praised the meals provided to gaming staff. They were allowed to enjoy the food prepared for the customers (e.g. food provided in a buffet). One dealer said, “A great variety of western and Asian food is available. Eating delicious food is certainly an important part of good living to many Chinese.” Some appreciated the employee care programs (e.g. free medical care and psychological counseling) provided at Las Vegas style casinos.

Career development

Opportunities to advance and to develop a career were also considered important sources of satisfaction. Several considered themselves qualified for gaining promotion because of their outstanding performance. A participant who was recently promoted supervisor exclaimed, “Apart from having an increase in salary, promotion was recognition of my hard work, merit and ability. I am proud of it.”

Personal growth and friendship

Some chose to work for large international gaming corporations because they looked for “eye-opening” experiences which were perceived as beneficial to personal growth. A supervisor explained, “Chinese and western casinos are different…free shows, free snacks and bottles of water were first provided in Las Vegas style casinos. I was amazed by many new things when I changed to work at this new American casino.” Another young dealer said, “I am mature and patient as a result of serving both friendly and difficult customers who came from all walks of life.” Some were grateful for colleagues’ friendship and help. One employee said, “I am lucky! My colleagues and supervisor taught me how to deal with hostile gamblers. We are friends now. We often go out for fun after work.”

Contribution to economy

Some interviewees enjoyed providing entertainment (i.e. gambling services) to visitors. They noted that gambling could be fun. They liked seeing customers enjoying the games. Many were proud of Macau’s success in the casino industry. They took pride in making contribution to Macau’s economic growth. One supervisor remarked that, “Ten years ago Macau was not well known at all. Today, it is famed as Las Vegas of the East. Millions of visitors come here to play and relax. Casino gambling generates huge revenues. I am proud of my contribution to the city’s success.”

Occupational stressors

Many interviewees described working in Macau casino as very stressful. Seven types of workplace stressors were identified. These were demanding work characteristics, relationship and managerial pressures, health-threatening environmental conditions, hazardous events, conflicts of conscience and job insecurity.

Demanding work characteristics

Most participants regarded demanding work characteristics as significant job stressors. They were expected to remain friendly, nice and polite even when the patrons behaved shamefully. A female dealer said, “I felt disgusted when male gamblers scolded me with obscene and wicked words but I had to tolerate.” Another male croupier noted that “I often feel extremely annoyed and insulted when losing gamblers curse me and accuse me of bringing them ill luck.” Passive endurance of customers’ fiery temper, curses, malice and threats could be very distressing.

Work shifts were also rated as very demanding. Many agreed that night shifts were harmful to health. A dealer claimed that the chance of making mistakes increased during night shifts. Although most participants gradually adapted to shift work, many experienced gradual breakdown of support networks because work shifts had hindered social gatherings and family activities. They regretted their relationship with family and friends was deteriorating. Their social circles gradually shrank. A young dealer said, “My friends have started excluding me from social functions…I am always working when they are off.” The interviewees acknowledged the need to make time for family and friends but were frustrated for failing to do so.

Other demanding work characteristics included doing a range of boring, repetitive and fatiguing work tasks (e.g. turning the Lucky Wheel for hours each day). Managing heavy workloads brought by influxes of customers from China, especially on weekends and during the public holidays could be very stressful. Anxiety about making mistakes and receiving complaints lodged by difficult patrons also increased during these busy times. Lastly, a few participants found it hard to cope with a “snobbish” work sub-culture which over-emphasized wealth, materialistic possession, brands and social status. They spared money to buy brand watches, rings, glasses and cell phones to avoid being looked down upon by guests and work colleagues.

Relationship stressors

Relationship problems created substantial stress. Conflicts with seniors and workmates appeared to be common. A dealer complained of being criticized by competing colleagues after disclosing his ambition for promotion. Some attracted jealous or contemptuous responses from colleagues because they got along with the superiors very well. Two interviewees considered leaving because tension in the team created much annoyance and discomfort. Many agreed that harmonious colleagues would enhance morale and efficiency whereas relationship conflicts could inflict pain.

Managerial pressures

Substantial stress emanated from inappropriate management and supervision. These managerial pressures included finding fault with minor things, having unrealistic expectations on staff performance, demanding good manners at all times even when employees were insulted or humiliated, giving critical and unfair remarks without sufficient evidence in staff appraisal and lack of praise, recognition and reward for work effort. Above all, it was most distressing to receive warnings. A dealer said, “Dismissal often follows three warning letters in my workplace. Warnings are given for being late, making mistakes, and applying for sick leave.”

Many pointed out that lack of support from management and organization could be quite demoralizing. These included being warned and punished for taking urgent leave and even sick leave. A few were discouraged to submit claims for workplace injuries (e.g., physical injuries resulting from patrons’ aggressive behaviors). Independent mechanism for handling staff grievances did not exist in many casinos.

Employees who worked in private gambling rooms designed exclusively for “high rollers” liked the less noisy and crowded working conditions. However, a few were frustrated with the poorly clarified roles and responsibilities. A supervisor noted that “I am obliged to please the rich customers by helping them to buy souvenirs, and to buy tickets for concerts held in another casino …. I am not supposed to provide these personal services.”

Health-threatening environmental conditions

Unfavorable and health-threatening workplace environmental conditions led to considerable stress. Many commented that casinos were severely polluted with noise, lights and smoking. A few worried about the harmful effects of passive smoking on their health. Some were fed up with the music, the sounds and the noise (e.g. the noisy jingling jackpot promotion, the guests’ shouting and swearing), and would at times become annoyed.

Hazardous events

Hazardous or traumatic events might cause long lasting detrimental consequences. These events included bullying, harassment, assault and battery, and exposure to customers’ self-harm behavior and even suicides. A dealer burst into tears when she recalled with fear how a drunken gambler suddenly attacked her. She noted that “drunken guests and desperate losers could be very aggressive and dangerous.” Another dealer became enormously agitated after witnessing a gambler jumped to death. She remarked that, “It was very horrible! I was so disturbed and terrified that I could hardly sleep nor eat.” The managers referred these two women to receive medical treatment.

Conflicts of conscience

Two interviewees considered quitting their job partly due to conflicts of conscience. They were reluctant to promote casino gambling activities. Many felt sad and responsible for customers’ gambling-related problems (e.g. bankruptcies, divorce, nervous breakdown and suicide). Some were upset by weeping gamblers who lost money and threatened to kill themselves. An experienced dealer pointed out that “exhausted gamblers who have gambled day after day without sleep and eating often end up in a hospital. It is sad! I feel terribly bad for their misfortunes although I have been working in the industry for such a long time.”

Job insecurity

During 2008 and mid 2009, the casino industry in Macau shrank rapidly. The shrinkage was brought partly by global economic recession after the 2008 financial tsunami. Some interviewees were pessimistic about the prospects of gaming industry in Macau. A dealer recollected that, “We were forced to work part-time. Some only got 50%–60% of the normal salary.” A supervisor elaborated that “another heavy blow came from China’s restrictive visiting policy which led to a drastic drop in the number of visitors since mid 2008. We felt very insecure because all the casino construction projects had been abruptly suspended. Some colleagues were dismissed.”

A few were anxious about the negative effects of competition among casinos in such a small region. One noted that, “Only the big ones can survive in the long run. I worry about developing a career in casino.” At least seven planned to leave when they had got enough capital to run a business or to start a new career.

Physical strains

Only one interviewee found work stress had increased his job motivation. Majority only noticed the harmful physical reactions elicited by workplace stressors. Many complained that night shifts and heavy workloads weakened body’s immune system. Other physical strains were fatigue, disturbed sleep, musculoskeletal disorders (e.g. back pain and sore feet), appetite and gastro-intestinal problems. One dealer said, “Insufficient sleep has damaged resiliency of my body. I often contract flu from the customers but I am not allowed to wear a mask.”

Psychological strains

All were aware of the deleterious effects of work stress on their body and emotions. The commonly experienced emotional strains were boredom, moodiness, irritability, nervousness, tension, anxiety and depression. A young dealer said, “After taking up this job, aggressive patrons often depress me and the supervisor’s criticisms annoy me. I am moody and anxious.” Two interviewees described themselves as “psychologically ill” after passing through traumatic experiences. One was a victim of violence. Her arm was broken by a drunken gambler in an assault. The other was a witness of a patron’s suicide. The doctor diagnosed their illness as post-traumatic stress disorder, and both needed medical and psychological treatment.

Coping with work stress

All agreed that coping with work stress was very important but none were aware of any organization training on generic coping or stress management. Three types of coping behavior were identified, namely engaging with stress alleviating activities, seeking formal and informal support, and relying on spiritual help.

Many tried to “unwind” after work by engaging with a great variety of activities. These included eating, smoking, drinking and gambling with casino colleagues, singing with friends at karaoke, enjoying Chinese tea breakfast with fellow employees after night shifts, holding barbeque parties, having fun in family gatherings, and joining sight-seeing tours during vocational leaves. Some preferred solitary activities like crying, shouting, sleeping, shopping, doing exercise, listening to music, watching movies at home, gambling online and playing computer games.

Other coping strategies aimed essentially at seeking formal or informal support. These included sharing work-related problems with trustworthy colleagues, receiving emotional support from friends and family, seeking professional help when stressors became overwhelming, and praying to a higher power. Majority agreed that social support was a very valuable coping resource but was hard to develop and maintain. Some were aware of the potential damages associated with smoking, drinking and gambling but they believed that these activities would relieve stress.

Reasons for gambling

All started gambling long before working for casino. Majority began playing mahjong and card games at the age of 7–12 years. Two also bet on soccer matches and slots before 18 years which was the legal age of gambling in Macau.

With the exception of one interviewee, all reported gambling outside working hours in the previous year. Fourteen gambled in casino. Five simultaneously engaged in Internet gambling, while three also played mahjong and card games with colleagues and friends. Many gambled with intent to alleviate job stress (9/14). They convinced themselves that they would not get hooked to gambling because they simply played to relax. Other reasons for gambling participation were to have fun, to try their luck, to win money, to please and socialize with colleagues or the seniors. Lastly, gambling seemed to be a popular entertainment in Macau where alternative recreational opportunities were lacking.

Problem gambling

Many interviewees agreed that casino gaming employees had higher rates of gambling involvement and problem gambling than other occupational groups. One noted that “gambling is part of the workplace culture…around 90% of gaming staff gamble after work to relax and to socialize.” Several estimated that around 20% of casino gaming employees might have gambling problems. They heard about colleagues begging for cash to repay gambling debts, and noticed the news of gambling-related crimes, especially among young dealers had increased.

Using the DSM-IV diagnostic criteria (American Psychiatric Association 1994), one male interviewee (6.7%) was identified as a pathological gambler (meeting seven criteria). Five men (33.3%) who met 4 criteria were designated as problem gamblers. Two men and a woman (20%) met only one criterion. They could be classified as at-risk gamblers. Five recreational gamblers (1 man and 4 women) did not meet any criterion. They gambled for fun and relaxation.

These recreational gamblers often played card games and mahjong with friends or family members in a home environment monthly or bi-monthly with a pre-determined time frame and budget (2%–5% of their salary). At-risk gamblers gambled on average every two weeks, and problem gamblers gambled 2–3 times a week at commercial gaming venues (mainly in casinos but also at slot lounges and on the Internet). The pathological and problem gamblers spent at least a quarter of their monthly salary on gambling activities.

The pathological gambler often gambled after work playing casino table games at least four times a week. He would gamble more frequently when he was “stressed or depressed”. The pathological and problem gamblers reported increasing their gambling activities since working at the casino. Eight gamblers found their gambling had remained the same. One reported giving up gambling outside work hours after the suicide of a patron.

Risk factors for problem gambling

The interview data uncovered several risk factors which might contribute to pathological and problem gambling among the casino employees. Individual factors were the male gender, having interest in gambling activities, being ambitious to get rich, having distorted cognitions about gambling skills and knowledge, being reliant on loans to solve financial problems, and denying problematic gambling. Workplace factors included shift work, lack of alternative entertainment to alleviate job stress, frequent exposure to gambling activities, easy access to gambling and loans, and influence of gambling promotions and gambling colleagues. Since the sample size was small (n = 15), future research using larger samples will be useful to further verify the relationship between these factors and problem gambling among gaming venue employees.

Male gender

All the problem and pathological gamblers were men. Most female players were social gamblers. Only one woman was at-risk for problem gambling. Early studies repeatedly revealed gender differences in problem and pathological gambling (e.g. Fong and Ozorio 2005; Lee et al. 2008; Volberg 1996; Wong and So 2003). This study confirms that men are more likely to have gambling problems than women.

Interest in gambling activities

All the problem gamblers were fond of gambling activities which were perceived as challenging and sensation giving. One remarked that “no activities are as interesting as gambling. I feel so excited in both winnings and losses!” Some disclosed their passion for gambling had caused problems (e.g. gambling debts and quarrels with family) before they worked for casino. It is likely that the industry attracts gamblers and even problematic gamblers (Hing and Breen 2005; Shaffer and Hall 2002).

Ambition to get rich

All were ambitious to get rich to buy a house, a new car, to improve the family living conditions or to start a business. They emphasized satisfaction derived from materialistic possessions. Gambling appeared to provide “a short cut” to wealth. One exclaimed that, “I was not born rich. The only short-cut to riches is to gamble. I want to open a cafe if I have money.” Another dreamed of starting an investment company.

Distorted cognitions about gambling skills and knowledge

All problem gamblers were confident of their gambling skills and knowledge about various casino games. They believed they had better chances of winning than their guests and other non-gaming employees. Many insisted that they had insider knowledge about different games, and had developed winning strategies to beat the system. They used a variety of strategies to enhance the chances of winnings (e.g. wearing red underwear and carrying special objects which would bring good fortune). Past studies indicate perceived insider knowledge and illusion about winnings may lead to problem gambling (e.g. Hing & Breen 2005).

Relying on loans to tide over financial difficulties

All considered borrowing money to tie over financial difficulties an acceptable option. There was nothing to be ashamed of. Many problem gamblers borrowed money to finance gambling and repay gambling debts. Relying on loans became a life style thing for them. A problem gambler summarized that, “The more I borrowed, the more I lost. When losses and loans snowball, only gambling will provide an opportunity to clear off the debts by big wins.”

Denial of having a gambling problem

Only the pathological gambler admitted that he was hooked to gambling but he rejected treatment. All problem gamblers denied having a gambling problem although they reported many gambling-related difficulties (e.g. depression and gambling debts). None was aware of gambling counseling services in Macau. Reluctance to seek professional help would exacerbate gambling problems (Hing and Breen 2005).

Lack of alternative entertainment to alleviate job stress

Problem gamblers were more likely to “unwind” after work by gambling and drinking. Only casinos and pokies opened 24 hours a day. They developed the habit of going to another casino to drink and play baccarat after finishing work at mid night. A problem gambler emphasized that life without gambling would be terribly boring due to a lack of alternative recreational activities in Macau. Majority commented that facilities for sports, amusement and cultural activities were inadequate.

Shift work led to social isolation

Work shifts had interfered opportunities to meet acquaintances and family members causing social isolation and gambling problems (Hing and Breen 2008b; Keith et al. 2001). Many felt lonely. Casino and slots shops became convenient places for meeting colleagues and socializing with people. A young dealer explained that, “It is hard to find someone to hang out with in the mid-night. I love playing baccarat with colleagues in a neighboring casino… . I feel less lonely and boring.”

Easy access to gambling

Although casino employees were prohibited to gamble in the venue where they were employed, it was convenient to play somewhere else. There were nearly 30 casinos and many slot lounges in Macau. A problem gambler said, “Anywhere you go, there are casinos around you…the gambling atmosphere is so pervasive in Macau. How could gamblers resist playing?” Accessibility to gambling is associated with increased vulnerability to gambling problems (Productivity Commission 1999).

Easy access to loans

All gamblers revealed that it was very convenient to get cash from the ATMs or the loan sharks who hang around gaming venues. Many agreed that easy access to loans would encourage chasing losses (Hing and Breen 2005), and raise the risk for having gambling problems. Some desperate losers would resort to stealing and other crimes when loan sharks refused to lend money to them.

Exposure to gambling activities

A dealer said, “My duty is to gamble with the guests. Gambling becomes a part of my everyday life schedule.” Such frequent exposure to gambling activities might normalize gambling for the gaming employees (Hing and Breen 2005). Seeing high-rollers laying huge wagers and wining big, some employees would envy them. They might gradually pick up such an excessive style of gambling without considering its potential negative consequences. Many early studies confirm frequent exposure to gambling, particularly heavy gambling, may increase gaming venue employees’ susceptibility to gambling problems (Hing & Breen 2005; Hing and Gainsbury 2011; Shaffer et al. 1999).

Influence of gambling promotions

All agreed that gambling products were being vigorously promoted in Macau. Their enthusiasm in gambling activities was strongly aroused by the colorful eye-catching promotions on escalating jackpots and the “easy win” advertisements. The atmosphere, the lights, the sound and music also encourage gamblers to play (Griffiths and Parke 2003).

Influence of gambling colleagues

Many disclosed that casino employees were keen at gambling together after work to “unwind”. It appeared to be a part of the work culture. Problem gamblers perceived gambling together would reduce loneliness and boredom but would enhance staff communication and morale. It seemed that gambling and drinking together offered opportunities for social interaction and acceptance into the workgroup (Hing and Breen 2005). Some admitted that it was hard to decline colleagues’ invitations to gambling.

Opinions on responsible gambling strategies

None of the Macau traditional casino employees were aware of any responsible gambling strategies implemented at their workplace. Many had never heard of responsible gaming measures. Only the Las Vegas style casino employees were aware of signage and information leaflets which were designed for customers. Majority agreed that responsible gambling had never been vigorously promoted in Macau. Many supported the industry and the government to develop responsible gambling strategies. They commented that with rapid expansion of casino gambling in Macau, more patrons and gaming employees would have gambling problems.

Venue-based responsible gambling strategies

The interviewees proposed four types of venue-based measures to prevent problem gambling among staff. First, some suggested staff awareness training should be organized. They agreed that increasing gaming employees’ understanding of risks, signs and harms of problem gambling would be useful. Second, many welcomed the provision of information on gambling counseling. A supervisor added that it would be helpful if referrals to professional services could be arranged. Third, several proposed eradicating loan sharks from gaming facilities because easy access to cash would accelerate gambling addiction. Lastly, all supported the existing policy of prohibiting gaming staff to gamble at their workplace.

Governmental promotion in responsible gambling

Many expected the government to take a more active role to minimize problem gambling among gaming employees. Some commented that residents of 18 years were too young for entering the industry. They suggested that only adults of 21 years or above should be allowed to work at gaming facilities. A few criticized that there were too many casinos in such a small region, and gambling temptation was everywhere. Government should introduce a halt and undertake a review on social costs before any new casinos were permitted to open.

Opponents to responsible gambling measures

Only a few emphasized that the individual should be responsible for his/her gambling problems. Problem gamblers should not expect their employers or the government to help them because they were given the free choice to gamble or not. They raised concern about the negative impacts of implementing responsible gambling measures (e.g. undermining the business and increasing costs). They also questioned the effectiveness of these measures.