Gambling is an activity involving the risky pursuit of a monetary gain in activities that have a random or uncertain outcome. Historically, the term gambler has also been used to refer to a fraudulent gamester or crook who manipulates play for money (Oxford English Dictionary second edition, 1989). Gambling can take many forms, including casino gambling, horse race betting, lottery ticket sales, and sports wagering.
While the majority of individuals engage in gambling for entertainment purposes, a small percentage become seriously involved to the extent that their involvement has significant and negative personal, family, social, and financial consequences. This group of people is referred to as compulsive or pathological gambling. The DSM-IV, the manual that informs psychologists about psychological disorders, defined 10 warning signs of problem gambling:
A key factor in a person’s vulnerability to developing a gambling disorder is impulsivity. People who struggle with impulsivity often exhibit poor decision making, have trouble controlling their emotions and are predisposed to sensation- and novelty-seeking behaviors. This is why it is important for individuals to have strong support systems in place and to be aware of the potential consequences of their gambling behavior.
Other factors that may influence a person’s vulnerability to gambling disorder include genetics, environment, and culture. Genetics can play a role in how a person processes reward information, controls impulses, and weighs risk. Research indicates that some individuals may be born with an underactive brain reward system, which can interfere with their ability to control impulses and make sound decisions. In addition, some individuals have a tendency to be more easily distracted or influenced by others, which can lead to reckless behavior when they are gambling.
When it comes to the environment, individuals can increase their vulnerability by being in proximity to casinos or other gambling establishments. Individuals can also be at increased risk if they are exposed to the media or other influences that promote excessive gambling. It is also important for individuals to set boundaries in managing their money, review bank or credit card statements regularly, and avoid the use of gambling as a way to solve problems. In addition, it is recommended that people refrain from engaging in gambling activities if they are inebriated or depressed. This is because combining alcohol and gambling can have dangerous and even fatal consequences. It is also important for individuals to remember that, regardless of the type of gambling they participate in, all forms of gambling are inherently risky. Gambling is never a secure way to make money. In fact, you will most likely lose more than you win. That is why it is vital to have a clear understanding of what you are getting into before placing any money down. The most important thing to remember is that gambling should be seen as a form of entertainment, not a way to make money. If you are going to gamble, start with a fixed amount that you can afford to lose and don’t spend more than that.