Gambling is the wagering of something of value, such as money or goods and services, on an event with a random outcome. The term is used for both games of chance that have no skill and those where skill can influence the results, such as sports betting or a stock market bet. It is estimated that about $10 trillion is legally wagered annually on various gambling activities around the world. Regulatory laws and social norms vary by jurisdiction, but most prohibit or restrict certain types of gambling. Internet-based gambling, which is not subject to regulation, allows gamblers to play in jurisdictions where such activity is legal.
The research in this area focuses on risk-taking and the psychological effects of gambling, such as excitement, arousal, and negative emotional states. There is little consensus on the extent to which other dimensions of impulse control, such as sensation- and novelty-seeking, affect a person’s gambling behavior. In addition, there is disagreement about whether the impulsive features of gambling are better accounted for by the concept of psychophysiological disorders or by a generalized category of behavioral disturbances (Shaffer, 1986).
Despite these limitations, there is consensus that gambling involves a significant element of impulsivity. Consequently, many mental health professionals consider gambling to be an impulse control disorder. Several criteria for the diagnosis of gambling disorder were proposed in the DSM-IV, including damage or disruption to a person’s life or environment, loss of control, and dependence on gambling. Some of the other symptoms associated with gambling disorder include tolerance, withdrawal, and preoccupation with gambling.
It is important to note that the majority of individuals with gambling problems do not meet the criteria for a pathological gambling diagnosis under DSM-IV. This is because the symptoms do not appear to be triggered by or made worse by the underlying mood disorders that are more likely to be present in these individuals, such as depression or stress.
There are a number of different ways that people can get help for their gambling problems, including family therapy, marriage counseling, career and credit counseling. These programs can help a gambling problem by teaching coping skills and addressing the issues that are contributing to the gambling problem.
In addition, it is possible to reduce the occurrence of gambling behaviors by eliminating access to money. This can be accomplished by not keeping credit cards, having someone else manage one’s money, closing online gambling accounts, and limiting the amount of cash kept on hand. It is also advisable to seek treatment for any underlying mood disorders that may contribute to gambling problems, as these can be made worse by the act of gambling itself. These disorders can include anxiety, depression and stress. The best way to treat these is through psychotherapy. This can be done through individual, group or family sessions with a professional therapist who is trained in the treatment of gambling addictions. A therapist can help the person learn how to control their impulses and to replace them with healthier alternatives.