Gambling is a popular activity that can be rewarding and exciting. However, it is important to practice responsible gambling habits to avoid negative effects. In addition, there are other ways to get the thrill of gambling without risking money. Many individuals have benefited from gambling by raising funds for charity, attracting tourists to local communities, and strengthening the economy in some jurisdictions. However, some individuals have developed serious problems with gambling. These problems are more common in certain groups, such as low-income individuals and people with mental health conditions.
The psychology of gambling has long fascinated researchers, and there is now considerable consensus that gambling involves impulsive behavior. For example, research has shown that a person’s risk-taking may be related to their sensation- and novelty-seeking. Also, the research shows that a person’s ability to control their impulses may be related to the degree of enjoyment they receive from gambling.
Although some people are able to gamble responsibly and enjoy it as an entertaining diversion, others overindulge, incur debts that impair their ability to support themselves and their families, and lose control of their lives. For these individuals, it is possible to become pathological gamblers, according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-IV (DSM-IV). Pathological gambling can cause significant distress, financial losses, legal issues, and other problems in the individual’s life.
In addition to the psychological factors that contribute to gambling, a variety of external and environmental factors may influence an individual’s propensity to gamble. These factors include the availability of gambling opportunities, social norms and pressures to gamble, and the presence of family members who are compulsive gamblers. Various theories have been proposed to explain the causes of pathological gambling, but most of these are based on a correlation between sensation-seeking and impulsive behaviors.
To avoid gambling addiction, start by setting a fixed amount of money that you are willing to lose and limit the time you spend gambling. Also, always remember that what goes up must come down, and never lie about your wins or losses. You can also seek help from a professional, such as a therapist. BetterHelp is an online counseling service that matches you with a licensed, accredited therapist in as little as 48 hours. Get started by taking our free assessment and getting a free consultation.