Gambling is the wagering of money or other items of value on an event with a random outcome, such as a lottery, a game of chance, or a horse race. Historically, the term has also referred to activities that require skill; for example, knowledge of card-playing strategies may improve a bettor’s chances of winning in some games, or the skills of a jockey and horses in a horse race can influence the probability of a win.
Some researchers argue that gambling involves the innate desire to take risks and enjoy diverse sensations, in line with theories of sensation-seeking and impulsiveness (Zuckerman, 1979; Cloninger, 1987). Moreover, it is argued that people gamble for the positive reinforcement they experience during the period of uncertainty, which is a major factor contributing to the addictive nature of the behavior.
In addition, some researchers have pointed to the fact that the size of a reward affects the degree to which gambling is reinforced; smaller rewards, for example, are less resistant to extinction than larger ones (relative to the total amount wagered), and this suggests that the greater the amount of money won by a gambler, the more likely he or she is to continue playing. Likewise, near misses – such as two identical fruits in a slot machine – can provide a brief moment of reinforcement and excitement in the expectation that the third will appear (relative to the total number of cherries).
Many people use gambling to relieve unpleasant feelings, such as boredom, loneliness, or anxiety. However, there are more healthy ways to do so, such as exercising, spending time with friends who don’t gamble, and practicing relaxation techniques. Furthermore, it is important to note that gambling can lead to other serious problems, such as financial difficulties and strained or broken relationships.
Recognizing the problem and seeking help is an important first step in dealing with a gambling addiction. Seeking assistance from a gambling rehabilitation service can be an excellent way to manage the problem and to learn healthier ways of relieving unpleasant feelings. These services can offer family therapy and marriage, career, and credit counseling to assist the individual in repairing their finances and rebuilding their lives. They can also provide advice on how to set boundaries and limit their access to credit cards and other sources of money. BetterHelp is an online therapy service that can connect you with a therapist for help with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and more. Start by taking our assessment, and get matched with a therapist in just 48 hours. You can also watch videos of real-life stories from people who have overcome gambling addictions.