Gambling involves betting something of value on the outcome of a random event with the intention of winning something else of value. This activity can cause serious harm to individuals and their families if done excessively, and it is often associated with drug and alcohol abuse, relationship problems, bankruptcy, and other financial difficulties. While many people enjoy gambling and are able to do so responsibly, others may develop an addiction to the game or experience other forms of problem gambling, such as chasing losses or hiding evidence of their activities.
Gambling affects the brain in several ways, including by triggering an emotional reward response and encouraging the development of impulsiveness. In addition, some individuals are predisposed to gambling disorder due to genetics or environmental factors such as trauma and social inequality, which can contribute to the development of harmful gambling behavior. Symptoms of problem gambling can start in adolescence or later in life and can range from mild to severe. In the United States, 2.5 million adults (1%) meet the criteria for a gambling disorder. Approximately 5-8 million more Americans are at risk for developing gambling disorder, according to research and treatment professionals.
A number of strategies can help a person to overcome a gambling problem or to reduce their involvement in it. These include family therapy, marital and other types of counseling, support groups such as Gamblers Anonymous, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). There are also inpatient and residential programs available for people with a severe gambling disorder who cannot control their urges without round-the-clock supervision.
There are a variety of reasons why people gamble, including the desire to win money, to relieve unpleasant feelings, or to socialize with friends. However, there are healthier and more effective ways to cope with unpleasant emotions and boredom, such as exercising, spending time with non-gambling friends, practicing relaxation techniques, and taking up new hobbies.
The underlying cause of problem gambling is the loss of control over a person’s impulses. People with a gambling disorder have a difficulty controlling their urges and become obsessed with thinking about, planning, and engaging in gambling activities. Those with this condition may even become irritable or hostile when they are not gambling.
Several models and theories have been proposed to explain the causes of pathological gambling. They include a general theory of addictions, the reward deficiency syndrome, behavioral-environmental reasons, and the biopsychosocial model. While these models and theories are not necessarily equivalent, they provide a useful framework for understanding how gambling disorders develop and can be used to guide interventions and public policy decisions.
