What Causes Gambling?

Gambling is the risking of money or something else of value to predict the outcome of an event based on chance, such as a football game, slot machine, scratchcard or betting with friends. Whether you gamble for fun or to win money, gambling can become addictive and cause problems in your life. Gambling can affect anyone regardless of income, culture, social status or education level. If you have a gambling problem, there are ways to get help.

What causes gambling?

Theories about why people gamble include the sensation-seeking and novelty-seeking theories. Sensation-seeking explains why some people enjoy the thrill of a possible big win, while novelty-seeking explains why some people are attracted to new experiences. Both of these explanations are rooted in impulse control theory. Other reasons for gambling include the desire to feel good, relief from boredom, and a need to self-soothe unpleasant feelings. There are healthier and more effective ways to relieve boredom and unpleasant feelings, such as exercising, spending time with friends who don’t gamble, or practicing relaxation techniques.

The signs and symptoms of gambling disorder are similar to those of other addictions and mental health conditions, including impulsivity, impaired judgment, cognitive distortions, denial and compulsivity. Gambling disorder is a serious condition that can lead to financial ruin, debt, bankruptcy and even suicide. It has the highest suicide rate of any substance use or gambling disorder.

A diagnosis of gambling disorder is based on DSM-IV criteria, which include loss of control over gambling, preoccupation with gambling, and a feeling of being out of control. If you have a friend or family member with gambling problems, it is important to reach out for support. Many state and local organizations offer helplines, workshops and other services to assist with recovery. You can also seek peer support through groups such as Gamblers Anonymous, a 12-step program patterned after Alcoholics Anonymous.

A person can develop a gambling problem at any age, although children and adolescents are more likely to be at risk for developing one. A person’s genetics, environment, medical history and level of education may contribute to their risk of developing a gambling problem. People who have a family history of gambling problems are at higher risk for developing a gambling disorder.