Gambling disorder:
Gambling disorder (previously called pathological gambling) is recognized in the DSM-5 as a behavioral addiction. It involves persistent and recurrent problematic gambling behavior that leads to significant distress or impairment.
Here’s a detailed overview from a clinical psychology perspective:
Key Features
Persistent gambling behavior despite negative consequences (financial, social, occupational, or legal).
Loss of control: Repeated unsuccessful efforts to reduce or stop gambling.
Preoccupation: Constantly thinking about gambling, planning future bets, or thinking of ways to get money for gambling.
Tolerance: Needing to gamble with increasing amounts of money to achieve the desired excitement.
Withdrawal-like symptoms: Restlessness or irritability when attempting to cut down or stop gambling.
Chasing losses: Trying to recover lost money by gambling more, often worsening the problem.
Deception: Lying to family members, friends, or therapists about gambling behaviors.
Risking significant relationships or opportunities: Gambling interferes with work, relationships, or educational/career prospects.
Relying on others for financial rescue: Seeking loans or financial help to relieve desperate financial situations caused by gambling.
Diagnostic Criteria (DSM-5)
- Diagnosis is typically made when 4 or more of the above behaviors occur over a 12-month period.
- Severity can be classified as:
- Mild: 4–5 criteria
- Moderate: 6–7 criteria
- Severe: 8–9 criteria
Psychological and Behavioral Factors
- Cognitive distortions: Beliefs like “I’m due for a win” or “I can control the outcome.”
- Emotional triggers: Stress, boredom, loneliness, or depression may intensify gambling urges.
- Comorbidities: Often co-occurs with substance use disorders, mood disorders, or impulse-control disorders.
Treatment Approaches
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Targets cognitive distortions and helps develop healthier coping strategies.
Motivational Interviewing (MI)
- Enhances motivation to change gambling behavior.
Self-help programs
- Gamblers Anonymous or other peer support groups.
Pharmacotherapy
- CONSULT A PSYCHIATRIST
Family therapy
- Helps repair relationships and develop a supportive environment.
Red Flags
- Increasing secrecy about finances.
- Borrowing money to gamble.
- Mood swings or irritability when not gambling.
- Frequent thoughts about gambling.
Shervan K Shahhian
LIBERTY PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION 