In this experimental study, the effects of cognitive load on reckless gambling were investigated among Japanese undergraduates. Changes in the participants' emotional states and perceived luck while gambling were also investigated. Participants (23 males and 21 females) performed the Game of Dice Task (GDT) consisting of 18 trials; their emotional states and perceived luck were assessed before the first trial and after subsequent trial. Participants in the experimental group were asked to memorize words while playing the GDT, whereas those in the control group were not required to do so. Results indicate that the experimental group gambled more recklessly than the control group while performing the GDT. Furthermore, participants in the experimental group experienced more positive emotions and better perceived luck than the control group. These results suggest that individuals with cognitive load while gambling are likely to interpret their emotional states and perceived luck more favorably and to overestimate the probability of winning. Therefore, these individuals are prone to gambling recklessly.
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