Gambling involves risking something of value on an event whose outcome is determined by chance and in the hope of reaping a gain. It has existed in virtually every society throughout history, and it is a frequent source of social conflict. A person who has a gambling problem experiences difficulty controlling their behavior, even when they know that it is harmful.
There is considerable consensus that the underlying cause of gambling problems is impulsiveness. However, research has not systematically addressed how impulsiveness interacts with other dimensions of the disorder, such as sensation-and novelty-seeking, arousal, and negative emotionality. In addition, studies do not systematically address the extent to which these factors interact to affect initiation into and progression of gambling behaviors.
The term “gambling” is usually used to refer to the wagering of money or goods in a game of chance, but it may also include betting on sports events or other contests. There are many types of gambling, but all involve some degree of hazard and the possibility of losing some or all of one’s money. Unlike other forms of recreation, gambling often leads to serious consequences.
It is estimated that 2.5 million U.S adults (1%) meet diagnostic criteria for pathological gambling in a given year. Moreover, an additional 5-8 million (2-3%) are considered to have mild to moderate gambling problems. While these figures may seem high, it is important to note that the vast majority of people who gamble do so responsibly.
Some of the factors that contribute to a gambler’s problem are cultural, economic, and psychological. In the United States, for example, the Depression and a growing emphasis on profit in business have caused many individuals to place an inordinate amount of emphasis on money. Furthermore, the increasing prevalence of television and other media has led many to develop an unrealistic sense of expectations about life’s rewards.
There are several ways that people can reduce their risk of developing a gambling problem, such as by strengthening their support network, enrolling in a class on responsible gambling, and avoiding credit cards and online gambling websites. Another option is to seek help from a professional therapist. Those who have a strong desire to gamble can find success in treatment by focusing on other positive aspects of their lives, such as work or family, and working through the specific issues that are contributing to their gambling problem.
Other helpful strategies include keeping a journal to identify triggers and limiting spending by putting someone else in charge of money or using a bank that automatically deposits and withdraws cash. Some people have found it helpful to join a peer support group such as Gamblers Anonymous, which is modeled after Alcoholics Anonymous. In addition, some people have had success by seeking marriage, career, and credit counseling. The most important thing to remember is that it is never too late to change a bad habit. Recent research has shown that the brain’s capacity to learn is most robust from age 21 to 29, so there is still time to retrain the brain to behave responsibly.