Gambling is the act of placing something of value on an event involving chance, with the intent to win an item of equal or greater value. It can take many forms, from putting money on a horse race or the outcome of a football game to playing cards with friends or purchasing lottery tickets. Gambling is often associated with the idea of risk and reward, and it can be considered an addiction.
It is estimated that 2-4 million adults in the United States (1%) have a severe gambling disorder. However, many people who gamble do not meet the criteria for a diagnosis of a gambling disorder. Many of these individuals may have a mild form of the disorder, which can be just as debilitating and impact their lives in the same way that a pathological gambler would.
Psychiatric research suggests that gambling disorders are similar to substance abuse disorders, in terms of clinical expression, brain origin, comorbidity, physiology and treatment. In fact, the DSM-5 has moved pathological gambling into a new category of behavioral addictions and included it in its definition of addictive disorders.
A variety of factors contribute to gambling behavior, including impulsiveness, sensation- and novelty-seeking, arousal, and negative emotionality. It is also thought that the occurrence of a gambling problem is related to family history and personal experience with the game or activity, along with social and cultural influences.
The concept of gambling has long been controversial, especially in societies where it is legal to participate. Many religious groups have condemned gambling as a sin, and some have prohibited it altogether. In the Buddhist religion, for example, Lord Buddha condemned gambling as a cause of destruction in the Singalovada Sutra. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, the Iglesia ni Cristo, and other churches also prohibit gambling as a violation of the commandments.
Gambling is a worldwide activity and a major industry, with the legal casino sector accounting for most of the global market share. Other types of gambling include the use of scratchcards and pull-tab games, bingo, lotteries, and sports betting. In addition to the legal casino sector, there are also illegal and underground gambling activities.
In order to avoid a gambling problem, people should try to find other ways to fulfill their need for thrills. If they are unable to find other ways to satisfy their urges, they should seek counseling to discuss their thoughts and feelings and consider other options for dealing with their problems. It is important to remember that it takes a great deal of strength and courage to admit that one has a gambling problem, especially when it has resulted in significant financial loss or strained relationships. BetterHelp is an online service that can match you with a therapist who is licensed and accredited to help you overcome your gambling problem and rebuild your life. Get started with an assessment today. It’s free and confidential.