Gambling is the act of risking money or other assets on a game of chance that involves predicting the outcome of a random event (Bolen & Boyd, 1968). People gamble by placing bets on events like football matches, horse races, scratchcard games, etc. The amount of money they bet on the event depends on the ‘odds’ (e.g., 5/1 or 2/1), which are set by the betting company and determine how much they could win.

The odds are calculated using actuarial data and other variables. While the majority of individuals participate in gambling as a social activity, a small group becomes too involved and continues to gamble despite substantial and negative personal, family, and financial effects. This group is considered to have a gambling disorder, or pathological gambling. Pathological gambling is often misdiagnosed as a mental illness, substance abuse, or a personality disorder. Although research and treatment professionals have been aware of the similarities between pathological gambling and substance use for decades, DSM nomenclature has historically used the terms “abuse” and “dependence,” rather than addiction, to describe this condition.

Among the most common symptoms of gambling disorder are repeated unsuccessful attempts to control, cut back, or stop gambling. In addition, those suffering from gambling disorder often lie to conceal the extent of their involvement in gambling. They may also jeopardize relationships, jobs, or educational or career opportunities, and rely on others to help relieve desperate financial situations caused by gambling.

Many factors can contribute to a person’s propensity to gamble, including temperament and personality traits, such as sensation-and novelty-seeking, impulsiveness, and negative emotionality. Other factors that influence gambling behavior include cognitive distortions, such as illusory gains, false beliefs about the probability of winning, and elevated confidence and overestimation of their chances of success.

Gambling has long been a popular pastime for many, but it can become dangerous when the gambler is not in control of their actions. Those with a gambling disorder can lose their self-control and engage in reckless behaviors that cause significant damage to their lives and those around them.

Generally, people gamble for four reasons: social reasons, coping with stress or depression, and financial rewards. While these motives don’t excuse someone who has a gambling problem, they can help explain why someone might keep on gambling, even when they’re losing more than they’re winning. This might give you a better understanding of your loved one and how to best support them. This is especially important if you’re worried that they are in danger of developing a gambling disorder. Remember that you should not make fun of a person who is addicted to gambling, as this can be harmful to their health and well-being. It’s also important to remember that they did not choose to become a gambler, and they likely don’t know how serious their problem is. These things can be difficult to accept, but they are worth considering if you want to help them overcome their problem.