stopassistedsuicide Gambling is a common activity, involving the risk of losing something of value for a chance to win something of greater value. It is an international business, conducted in many forms such as lotteries, casino games, keno, scratch cards, sports betting and virtual simulated gambling. People also gamble with materials that have a value, but are not money such as marbles or collectible game pieces (respectively, Pogs and Magic: The Gathering). Gambling is an important part of the economy in many countries, especially where it is legal and regulated. However, for a small number of individuals, the pursuit of gambling can result in significant and negative personal, social, and family consequences.
Although it is true that most people who have a problem with gambling have never had a serious mental health disorder, pathological gambling has been associated with many disorders, such as depression and substance use problems. It is also a leading cause of financial difficulties and bankruptcy. It is important to seek treatment for any underlying mood disorder that may be contributing to the gambling behaviour, and to address any other issues that may be contributing to the gambling such as relationship problems, work stress, or alcohol and drug use.
In addition to a number of behavioural and cognitive therapies, some people find success with peer support groups such as Gamblers Anonymous which is based on the 12-step model used by Alcoholics Anonymous. These groups can help to build self-esteem and provide a source of support from other former gamblers who are now in recovery. Family therapy and marriage, career, and credit counselling can also be beneficial for those who have experienced problem gambling.
A wide variety of theories and models have been proposed to explain pathological gambling, ranging from biogenetic and medical explanations to behavioral-environmental reasons, general theories of addictions and reward deficiency syndrome. Some of these models have a good deal of empirical support, while others are less well-supported.
Regardless of the theoretical model, most researchers agree that pathological gambling is a complex problem. Some researchers believe that it is a combination of genetic and environmental factors, while others suggest that it is primarily a problem of impaired impulse control. Other theories include the sensation-seeking theory of Zuckerman and Cloninger, which suggests that people engage in gambling activities to gain positive reinforcement for a state of high arousal during periods of uncertainty, and the cognitive distortions model. These models have implications for intervention and research strategies, public policy decisions, and the perceptions of pathological gamblers themselves.