Gambling is the risking of something of value, usually money, on an event that is determined at least in part by chance. The hope is that the gambler will win and gain something of value, such as money or goods. Gambling is a widely practiced and widespread activity around the world, with some estimates of total global turnover reaching more than $10 trillion per year. Although some people associate gambling with slot machines or casinos, many forms of gambling are legal in various jurisdictions, including playing lottery games (like the National Lottery in the United Kingdom), organising football pools, purchasing scratchcards, betting on horse races or other sports events at organized venues, and playing card or dice games in private settings.
While research has highlighted that a number of factors are associated with pathological gambling, the underlying etiology remains a mystery. Attempts to link the disorder with sensation-and novelty-seeking, impulsivity, or negative emotionality have not been successful in explaining how and why some individuals begin and progress toward pathological gambling behavior.
Regardless of its cause, the disorder can be debilitating for affected individuals and their family members. It can harm physical and mental health, jeopardize relationships, impact work or study performance, lead to debt and even result in homelessness. It may also lead to illegal acts such as forgery, fraud or theft to fund gambling activities. In some cases, gambling may even trigger a violent or suicidal reaction.
People gamble for a variety of reasons, including the desire to win money, socialise and escape from stress or worries. However, for some people it can become a serious problem and lead to debt, loss of job or home, relationship problems and even suicide. It can also have a detrimental effect on their children’s education and social development.
While research into the underlying causes of gambling is important, it is also vital to develop effective treatments and interventions. Despite the growing recognition that gambling is an addictive activity, few effective treatment approaches are currently available. Several integrated approaches have been developed, but they have varying degrees of success and effectiveness. This is likely due to differences in the underlying conceptualizations of the disorder.
It is also critical to develop longitudinal studies that will provide data on the progression of the disorder over time. This type of research is more cost-efficient and will allow researchers across disciplines to examine the effects of gambling on the individual, their family, and society at large. These studies will help identify and explore mechanisms that moderate and exacerbate the development of gambling disorders. Using longitudinal studies will also help identify the factors that prevent or delay recovery from the disorder. In addition, they will assist in determining the appropriate etiology for the disorder and how to prevent its progression. This will help to guide future intervention strategies.
