Gambling is any activity in which something of value is staked on the outcome of a game or contest that involves some degree of risk and the hope of gain. It includes games of chance such as scratchcards or fruit machines, as well as sports events in which betting is organized (such as horse racing and lotteries). The vast majority of gambling takes place in commercial establishments such as casinos or racetracks, but it also occurs in private places such as homes, bars and even church halls. Gambling is legalized in many countries through state-licensed lotteries and sport wagering pools.
While the vast majority of people gamble without any problem, a significant minority develops gambling problems and these may become severe. A person who is compulsive about gambling can experience an array of emotions, including anxiety and depression. They may also become secretive about their activities and lie to family members and friends to hide how much money they are spending on gambling.
The development of gambling problems can be triggered by a variety of factors, including mood disorders such as depression or stress, and substance abuse. It is believed that gambling acts as a distraction from the symptoms of these disorders and can make them worse. A person who is under the influence of alcohol or drugs is more likely to gamble irresponsibly and develop gambling problems, as they are less able to control their actions and are more prone to impulses.
There is a wide range of views about the nature of gambling and gambling addiction. Research scientists, psychiatrists and other treatment care clinicians, as well as public policy makers tend to frame questions about gambling from different paradigms or world views based on their disciplinary training and areas of expertise. This diversity has stimulated a wide range of debate and discussion about the nature of gambling and gambling problems.
Some studies have found that the impulsivity characteristic of gambling is related to sensation- and novelty-seeking and to the level of arousal induced by the behavior. However, these findings have not systematically assessed the extent to which these variables interact and how they may affect initiation and progression of gambling behavior.
Another variable that may contribute to the development of gambling problems is reinforcement, particularly the positive reinforcement associated with wins. For example, Reid (1986) found that a bettor is likely to remain hooked on slot machines when two same-type fruits appear on a machine; this provides a temporary period of excitement and thrill as the bettor hopes for a third same-type fruit in order to win.
In addition, some researchers have suggested that the impulsive features of gambling can be regarded as similar to those of substance abuse and have called for pathological gambling to be included in the DSM classification of impulse disorders. Others have pointed out that the evidence supporting this comparison is not convincing and that it would be more accurate to consider pathological gambling as a form of recreational or leisure-time gambling disorder.