Fundamentals of Compulsive Gambling
Pathological gambling, a form of impulse control disorder, is a growing concern that affects not only the individual but also their family, employer, and community. This insidious habit, often masked by the allure of uncertainty and the thrill of betting, can lead to a myriad of problems, including financial instability, relationship issues, and even suicide thoughts and attempts.
The British Psychological Society defines gambling as betting something of value when the outcome is uncertain. This activity, while seemingly harmless to some, can become a dangerous addiction for others. According to a recent survey, 53% of students admitted to gambling in the past year, with 7% reporting significant gambling problems [1].
The warning signs of pathological gambling are varied and often subtle. For adults, these may include losing time from work, affecting home life, damaging reputation, feeling remorse, gambling to solve financial problems, and returning to gamble after a loss or win. More severe signs include gambling until last dollar is gone, borrowing or selling items to finance gambling, being reluctant to use gambling money for normal expenditures, and committing or considering illegal acts to finance gambling [2][3].
In the case of teenagers, financial issues like frequently asking for money or unexplained losses, and academic or social problems such as declining grades, poor attendance, and isolation, are often especially noticeable signs [5]. Other indicators include unexplained amounts of money, philanthropic behavior, missing items of value, or carrying around dice or cards.
Children of compulsive gamblers are at a higher risk of suffering abuse or neglect and developing pathological gambling themselves [4]. It's crucial to identify and address this issue early to prevent its harmful effects.
Gamblers Anonymous, a support group for those struggling with gambling addiction, asks its new members twenty questions to identify pathological gambling [4]. These questions help individuals assess whether their gambling habits have become problematic and whether they require professional help.
Early intervention by parents, psychologists, or support hotlines can significantly improve outcomes. If you suspect someone you know may be struggling with pathological gambling, it's important to approach the topic with empathy and understanding, offering support and guidance towards recovery.
[1] National Council on Problem Gambling. (2021). Statistics. Retrieved from https://www.ncpgambling.org/help-treatment/statistics/ [2] American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing. [3] Grant, J. E., O'Farrell, T. R., & Kim, S. W. (2014). Pathological gambling: A review of comorbidity and treatment. Addiction, 109(Suppl 1), 3-11. [4] Gamblers Anonymous. (n.d.). Questions Only a Compulsive Gambler Can Answer. Retrieved from https://www.gamblersanonymous.org/ga/literature/ga-literature/ga-questions-only-compulsive-gambler-can-answer [5] National Centre for Responsible Gambling. (2020). Youth Gambling: Warning Signs and Prevention Strategies. Retrieved from https://www.ncrg.org/resources/youth-gambling-warning-signs-and-prevention-strategies/
Casinos and gambling can trigger pathological gambling, a compulsive behavior that may lead to financial instability, relationship issues, and even suicidal thoughts. Recognizing the warning signs, such as losing time from work, damaging one's reputation, and being reluctant to use gambling money for normal expenditures, is crucial for early intervention, whether for adults or teenagers.
