Gambling is a risky activity that involves the taking of a chance with something of value, usually money. In some cases, people can develop an addiction to gambling, which can lead to serious financial problems and other difficulties. This article explains the warning signs and offers tips to help you get support for a loved one or yourself.
The term “gambling” is broad and covers a wide range of activities that are not necessarily illegal, but have the potential to cause harm. Defining these activities is important for legal regulations, consumer protection, and identifying harmful gambling. However, the nomenclature used to describe the different types of gambling also reflects a variety of viewpoints. Research scientists, psychiatrists, other treatment care clinicians, and public policy makers frame questions about gambling differently, depending on their disciplinary training and special interests.
A person’s vulnerability to developing a gambling disorder may be influenced by several factors, including age, gender, and family history. The development of a gambling disorder may be more common in people with low incomes, who have more to lose and have fewer resources for recovering from losses. In addition, casinos are a powerful environment that provides reinforcing stimuli, such as the clanging of coins and flashing lights that can stimulate a person to gamble more money (Knapp, 1976).
A person who is addicted to gambling often feels compelled to gamble secretly or lie about how much they are spending on gambling. They may also engage in self-denial, denying their gambling is problematic or making excuses to themselves and others. They may even start to gamble for coping reasons, such as to forget their problems or to distract themselves from distressing emotions (Bayat and Kazdin, 2010).
