Gambling is an activity in which people wager something of value, usually money, on the outcome of a random event. The activity can take many forms, from the classic games of chance (like blackjack and roulette) to more contemporary activities like video gambling machines. Regardless of the specific game or type of wager, gambling is considered an addictive behaviour because it involves risk, reward, and an inherent element of arousal.
There are also negative social impacts from gambling. Significant others of gamblers commonly experience isolation and self-blame, particularly when their spouses conceal their gambling [113]. In addition, a recent study found that some recreational gamblers report worse mental health functioning than nongamblers in long term care facilities [114].
In some communities, the perception of gambling is that it is a common pastime, which can make it difficult for individuals to recognize that they have a problem and to seek help. This can be especially true for affluent communities, where a person might be socially rewarded for engaging in such activities.
Some forms of gambling are considered illegal, but even legal gambling is not without its problems. Many states regulate the sale of lottery tickets and other forms of state-sponsored gambling to raise revenue for various purposes, such as education. In some states, these revenues are ring-fenced from general state spending and restricted to specific types of public works projects or services. However, in other cases, the gambling revenues are mixed into general state funds, which can create morally questionable issues, such as the use of marketing firms to increase lottery sales or development of new forms of gambling to maximize revenues.
Despite its risks, gambling can also have positive social and economic benefits for some people. For example, it provides an alternative form of entertainment, which can be especially useful for seniors who might otherwise spend their limited income on expensive hobbies or other forms of recreation that are not physically or mentally stimulating. In addition, some people find that it helps them to meet their basic needs for belonging, status and thrills. For example, casinos often foster feelings of exclusivity and specialness, which can satisfy people who are unable to fulfill these needs in other ways.
The benefits of gambling can also depend on the individual’s mood and situation. For instance, gambling can be a good way to relieve boredom or to escape from unpleasant emotions, such as stress, depression, substance abuse, or grief. It can also be a social activity, as it is possible to participate in group gambling activities with friends and family.
The definition of “problem gambling” has undergone profound change over time, from an emphasis on a lack of control over one’s actions to the understanding that it is a psychological disorder. The evolution of this diagnosis has been facilitated by, and stimulated by, the development of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, published by the American Psychiatric Association (DSM). It is worth noting that there is no single form of gambling that is more addictive than another; all forms can be problematic.
