Vulnerability to Gambling Disorder
Gambling is a risky activity whereby something of value is bet on a random event with the aim of winning a prize. Although many people gamble safely, others are prone to developing gambling disorder – a problem that causes serious consequences in all areas of life. Understanding what factors make people vulnerable to problematic gambling may help to develop prevention strategies and reduce harms.
Most people gamble at some time in their lives, usually to have fun and win money. While most people who gamble do not develop gambling disorder, up to 5% of adolescents and young adults who start gambling will go on to experience this problem. The risk of developing a gambling disorder is higher for people with lower incomes, as they have more to lose and are less likely to be able to afford to continue gambling after losing money [1]. Young men and boys are also particularly susceptible to developing a gambling disorder.
Vulnerability to gambling problems is partly due to differences in brain chemistry and impulsivity, which can be influenced by genes. However, cultural factors may also be important, as some communities may think of gambling as a normal pastime, making it difficult to recognize when one’s gambling behaviour becomes problematic.
While some forms of gambling are more addictive than others, all types of gambling can cause problems. The main reason for this is that they all stimulate the reward pathway in the brain, rewarding people with dopamine when they win and reinforce more skillful behavior. The high levels of dopamine produced by gambling can have long term effects on a person’s mental health, causing them to seek out riskier activities and become more impulsive.
Problematic gambling often occurs as a way to escape from reality or relieve unpleasant emotions. It is commonly used as a way to relax after a stressful day, following arguments with friends and family or as a substitute for other healthy ways of dealing with stress such as exercise, healthy eating or talking things through with loved ones. People with a problem with gambling tend to hide their addiction and lie about it, and may feel that they can’t trust friends and family with the truth.
Financial difficulties and debts can develop very quickly as a result of gambling, and many people find themselves unable to repay debts even when they stop gambling. They often feel trapped, and find themselves taking out pay day loans or stealing from loved ones in an attempt to clear their debts.
Studies of the impacts of gambling are often confined to economic costs and benefits, which can be easily quantified. However, it is vital that we also consider social costs and benefits. We have reviewed the literature and propose a framework for analyzing these, based on Williams et al’s definition of ‘social’ impact. It is important to include these in future studies of gambling impacts, as they can have a significant impact on well-being.