Gambling involves placing a stake on an event whose outcome is determined mainly by chance. It may be played in a variety of ways, including pari-mutuels (horse and dog tracks, off-track betting parlors, jai alai), lotteries, casinos (slot or poker machines), card rooms, bingo and the stock market (Illinois Institute for Addiction Recovery, 2007).
Most people gamble to some extent without problems. However, a small group of individuals become seriously involved in gambling to the point where it becomes detrimental to their personal, family, and social lives. The term “pathological gambling” is used to describe this condition, and it is classified in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (American Psychiatric Association, 2000).
Although there are many types of gambling activities, there are some common features among them. All involve a wager of some amount of money on an event that is subject to chance and involves a prize. In addition, all gambling activities are undertaken for a profit. Moreover, the prize is generally something of value. In order to be considered a valid form of gambling, the game must be conducted with real money, but games like marbles and Magic: The Gathering allow players to stake their collected game pieces in place of cash, resulting in a meta-game regarding the value of those materials.
People of all ages engage in gambling activities, with young adults being particularly susceptible to developing pathological gambling. In fact, recent research indicates that up to 5% of adolescents and young adults who engage in gambling develop a gambling disorder. The majority of those with gambling disorders are male, and they tend to begin gambling at younger ages than women, with some as young as 8 years old.
Several factors can contribute to the development of gambling disorder. Some people are genetically predisposed to it; others may experience life events that lead to increased stress and anxiety, which can trigger gambling behaviors. Some people also start gambling to relieve unpleasant feelings, such as loneliness or boredom. However, there are healthier and more effective ways of relieving these feelings, such as exercising, spending time with friends who do not gamble, and practicing relaxation techniques.
Some people may engage in unhealthy gambling practices because of financial or emotional distress. For example, they may borrow money or lie to their family members, therapists, or employers in order to finance their gambling activities. Those with gambling disorders have often jeopardized significant relationships, careers, or educational opportunities in order to gamble; they may even steal or commit fraud to fund their gambling activities. They often feel helpless, guilty, anxious, or depressed because of their involvement in gambling and have difficulty stopping their behavior despite repeated attempts. They may attempt to recover from their addiction by attending support groups, such as Gamblers Anonymous, and/or taking medication. However, the most effective treatment is abstinence from gambling. Those who are struggling with gambling disorder should seek professional help as soon as possible.