Gambling is an activity in which a person places something of value (usually money) at risk on the outcome of an event with an element of chance. Examples of gambling include: lottery tickets, cards, bingo, slot machines, races, animal tracks, and sporting events. Many people enjoy gambling and do not experience problems, but a small number of individuals develop problem gambling that affects their life. Problem gambling is also known as compulsive or pathological gambling. In the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, the fifth edition defines a pathological gambling disorder as “a persistent recurrent pattern of compulsive gambling that is associated with significant distress or impairment.”
Whether or not a person has a gambling problem, everyone should be aware of the risks involved in any form of gambling. All forms of gambling have an element of risk, and it is possible to lose a great deal of money.
Some individuals are at greater risk of developing a gambling problem than others, including adolescents and older adults. Research has shown that some individuals are genetically predisposed to risk-taking behaviours and impulsivity, which can lead to gambling problems. Others have a weaker brain reward system or may be prone to anxiety or depression, which can increase the likelihood of gambling disorders. In addition, there are some social factors that can increase the likelihood of problematic gambling. For example, some communities consider gambling a cultural pastime, and this can make it harder to recognize when a person has a problem.
In addition to the physical and psychological consequences of gambling, there are financial costs. Problem gamblers are more likely to take out loans and credit, and they often spend more than they can afford. Some individuals even steal or embezzle in order to finance their gambling activities. In addition, gambling can damage relationships and careers. The consequences of problematic gambling can be far-reaching and profoundly detrimental to the individual’s quality of life.
A person who is struggling with a gambling problem can seek help from a mental health professional or other trusted individual. The first step is to set limits on spending, which includes eliminating credit cards and limiting access to money. It is also helpful to talk about the issue with someone who is not a gambler and can provide support without being judgmental. Alternatively, there are a variety of community referral resources that can connect people with certified gambling counselors and intensive treatment programs.
In order to understand the causes of pathological gambling, more empirical studies are needed. In addition to assessing the validity of the current DSM criteria, it would be useful to explore a wider range of potential psychiatric diagnoses and to investigate the effect of different treatments on gambling disorders. Finally, it is important to recognize that contemporary scientists stand on the shoulders of pioneers who undertook early research into gambling and its effects. Therefore, it is particularly important to remember that “nothing leads the scientist astray like a premature truth” (Rostand, 1939). The nomenclature that emerges from these efforts must reflect the wide range of perspectives and paradigms from which people view gambling and its problems.
