Gambling is a complex behavior that encompasses a wide range of actions from trivial entertainment to risk-taking activities involving substantial amounts of money. While most people engage in gambling for enjoyment, a small group of individuals become seriously involved and develop problematic behavior that has significant personal, family, work, and financial effects. These are known as problem gamblers, or people with disordered gambling.
In the past, it was common to find gambling dens in towns and cities where a number of people worked to run the gambling establishments. These included dealers, odds compilers, public relations staff and others. Now, it is possible to place a bet in many locations and through many online venues. The gambling industry employs thousands of people and generates billions of dollars in revenue each year.
While some individuals do not have a problem with gambling, other individuals experience an addictive cycle of gambling behavior that can have devastating consequences. A person who has a gambling disorder can be at risk for emotional, social and financial problems, including homelessness and suicide.
Some risk factors for a gambling disorder are genetic, while others can be influenced by the environment and culture. Men are more likely to develop a gambling disorder than women, and young people are particularly vulnerable. This may be due to a combination of factors including a genetic predisposition for thrill-seeking behaviors, low incomes that increase the appeal of gambling and the risk of losing money quickly, and the availability of casino-style video games and betting apps that can be accessed anywhere, anytime, and on any device.
Among other things, a person who has a gambling disorder is likely to have a poor understanding of probabilities and risks. He or she will also be prone to making decisions based on faulty logic, such as the gambler’s fallacy (the mistaken belief that you will win your money back if you keep betting). These misconceptions are often caused by an individual’s negative experience with gambling in the past and can be difficult to overcome.
Another characteristic of a problem gambler is secretive behavior and lying to friends and family members. This is a way to avoid letting down one’s emotions and maintain a false sense of self-control. Gambling addicts are impulsive and may feel the need to bet more and more money in order to win back the losses they have incurred.
Several types of therapy are available for individuals with a gambling disorder. A therapist can help people understand the root causes of their behavior and learn healthier ways to relieve unpleasant feelings. In addition, a therapist can teach a person how to set healthy boundaries in managing money, take control of family finances, and review bank and credit card statements. A therapist can also provide local referral resources for gambling counselors or intensive treatment programs.