Latest and Future Trends With Dr. Catania

Module Overview:

The "Latest and Future Trends" module offers a forward-looking exploration of the rapidly evolving landscape of gaming, gambling, and emerging digital trends. It delves into diverse gaming types, including casual, role-playing, and simulation games, while drawing intriguing parallels between gaming and gambling. Learners will gain insights into cyberpsychology, understanding the psychological aspects of digital engagement. The module also addresses the emerging issues resulting from gambling products concealed within gaming platforms. Additionally, it offers a comprehensive understanding of cryptocurrency and the associated risks, making it a valuable resource for those navigating the ever-evolving digital sphere.

Learning Objectives:

• Explore the latest and future trends in gaming, including various game types.
• Recognize the similarities and distinctions between gaming and gambling.
• Understand the key concepts of cyberpsychology in the digital realm.
• Analyse emerging issues related to gambling products within gaming platforms. 
• Comprehend cryptocurrency and the associated risks within the digital landscape.

Dr. Maris Catania is a Chartered Psychologist and a veteran in the gambling industry, with over fourteen years of experience in game integrity and safer gambling.

Dr. Catania holds multiple advanced degrees, including a PhD from Nottingham Trent University, where her research focused on consumer protection, markers of harm, and responsible gambling under the supervision of Professor Mark Griffiths. She also holds an MSc in Occupational Psychology, a MSc in Addiction Studies, and is currently pursuing a MSc in Artificial Intelligence. Her work has earned her the Gambling Compliance Most Significant Contribution to Responsible Gambling Research award for three consecutive years.

In addition to her industry work, Dr. Catania teaches at the University of Malta, delivering lectures on gambling psychology, gaming psychology, gambling policy, behavioral addiction, and cyberpsychology. Her research is available on ResearchGate.