What Are the Causes of Gambling Problems?
Gambling addiction is considered an illness similar to alcoholism or chronic compulsive disorders. It can begin at an early age and often is inherited from family members. It leads to self-destructive behaviors that include theft, poor money management, work-related problems and troubled family relationships. Pinpointing an exact cause and finding a cure are not possible, but therapy and participation in Gamblers Anonymous often achieve long-term abstinence.
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Genetic Disorder
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Studies show that there may be a genetic component in compulsive gamblers in which people from families with a history of gambling, often over generations, may be at risk.
Immaturity
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Chronic gamblers may be insecure, immature with a refusal to behave responsibly, detached from reality. They also may subconsciously want to punish themselves.
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Young Age
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Often men who become compulsive gamblers begin in their mid- to late-teenage years, usually for the thrill. Women typically don't start until they are well into their 20s or 30s, and when they do, it's due primarily to stress at home or work.
Early Win
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An substantial gambling win in the early stages of addiction often gives young gamblers unrealistic expectations of success and a compulsion to repeat the experience.
Stressors
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Big events, whether positive or negative---stress in the workplace or home, or previous large gambling losses---can trigger destructive gambling episodes.
Mayo Findings
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The Mayo Clinic reported in 2009 that the absence or low level of neurons, produced in the brain by neurotransmitters to regulate mood and behavior, may be linked to compulsive gambling.
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Resources
- Photo Credit City of Las Vegas
