Addictive gambling
Addictive Gambling is a psychological disorder characterized by a persistent and recurrent maladaptive pattern of gambling behavior that disrupts personal, family, or vocational pursuits. The term is often used interchangeably with problem gambling, compulsive gambling, and gambling disorder.
Definition[edit | edit source]
Addictive gambling is defined by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) as a disorder characterized by a persistent and recurrent problematic gambling behavior leading to clinically significant impairment or distress. The individual with addictive gambling has an uncontrollable urge to gamble, despite harmful negative consequences or a desire to stop.
Causes[edit | edit source]
The exact cause of addictive gambling is unknown, but both environmental and genetic factors play a role. Some individuals may have a "predisposition" to develop a gambling problem due to family history or genetics. Others may develop a problem gambling behavior in response to major life changes or stressors, or due to the influence of specific personality traits.
Symptoms[edit | edit source]
Symptoms of addictive gambling may include a preoccupation with gambling, the need to gamble with increasing amounts of money to achieve the desired excitement, repeated unsuccessful efforts to control or stop gambling, and restlessness or irritability when attempting to cut down or stop gambling.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
Treatment for addictive gambling typically involves cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), medications, self-help groups, and sometimes a combination of these. CBT focuses on changing unhealthy gambling behaviors and thoughts, such as rationalizations and false beliefs. Medications may be helpful in reducing the urge to gamble and alleviating symptoms of depression or anxiety that may be contributing to the gambling behavior.
Prevention[edit | edit source]
Prevention strategies for addictive gambling include education about the risks associated with gambling, promoting healthy attitudes and behaviors around gambling, and providing resources for individuals who may be at risk for developing a gambling problem.
See also[edit | edit source]
| Addiction |
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|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dependence |
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| Treatment and management |
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| See also | |||||||||||
| Mental disorders |  | |
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| Therapeutic approaches | ||
| Interventions and prevention | ||
| Fields of study | ||
| Organizations | ||
| See also | ||
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