Gambling is a social activity in which participants risk something of value (money, property, or even lives) in exchange for the chance to win more than they invested. Some individuals become excessively involved in gambling and suffer from significant negative personal, social, and family consequences as a result. These individuals may be diagnosed with pathological gambling in a variety of ways, depending on the criteria used by psychiatrists and psychologists (the fourth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, called DSM-IV, uses 10 criteria for diagnosing pathological gambling). Other forms of gambling are less harmful to gamblers and society. These include sports betting, horse racing, and other activities in which skill or knowledge contribute to winning.
In addition to the usual wagering on outcomes of events, some forms of gambling involve staking materials that have a value but don’t represent money. For example, marbles games and collectible trading card games like Magic: The Gathering can be gamified by having players wager small discs or cards as stakes, resulting in a meta-game regarding the value of a player’s collection. Some gambling can also take place in the stock market, where investors bet on companies based on actuarial predictions of long-term financial performance.
The nature of gambling has changed dramatically since the first mentions of the term, and modern understanding of the problem has shifted to include a wide range of symptoms that can be categorized as a “disorder.” These can range from behaviors that put people at higher risk for developing more serious problems (subclinical), to those that would meet the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-fourth edition (DSM-IV) diagnosable criteria for pathological gambling (clinical).
While most individuals who gamble participate in this activity socially and for recreational purposes, some gamble to a degree that negatively impacts their personal, professional, and family lives. The occurrence of these issues increases with the frequency and intensity of the gambler’s involvement in gambling.
Individuals who develop an addiction to gambling can be found at all ages, and are not limited to particular races or genders. In fact, children as young as seven are known to struggle with gambling addictions, largely due to the prevalence of video and mobile gaming that often includes micro-transactions and payments. People from socially isolated groups and those who have poor living conditions are at increased risk for developing a gambling disorder.
There are several steps that can help prevent gambling addiction, including identifying your triggers and practicing self-control. Some tips for preventing gambling addiction include not drinking alcohol before and during casino visits, only playing for cash or chips, and tipping your dealers regularly. While many casinos offer free cocktails, remember that there is a reason they are giving them away and don’t get tempted to drink too much or bet too much. Having a clear strategy will help you avoid becoming addicted to gambling, and it can also make your experience more enjoyable.