The most common causes of gambling

The causes of gambling are often complex and can include a variety of psychological, social and biological factors that together form a complex web of influences leading to the development of this addictive behaviour.

Problem gambling cannot be attributed to a single cause, rather it is the result of the interaction of different aspects of an individual's life and their environment.

Psychological factors

Illusion of control: Many gamblers believe they can control the outcome of a game that is actually based on chance. This illusion is often reinforced by short-term wins that convince players of their ability to "outsmart" the system or to recognize patterns that do not actually exist.

Cognitive bias: Players are often subject to various cognitive biases, such as the 'player's fallacy', which exacerbates the situation by leading players to believe that after a losing streak a win must necessarily follow, which is statistically unjustified.

Escape Behaviour: For some individuals, gambling can be a form of escape from reality, problems, stress, anxiety or depression. Gambling provides a temporary escape from unpleasant feelings or situations, leading to their repeated seeking as a form of self-medication. The individual increasingly relies on gambling as a source of relief, which gradually leads to addiction.

Boredom: In situations where individuals feel a lack of stimulation or excitement in everyday life, gambling can become a way to fill this void. Easy access to online gambling can offer a tempting means to overcome feelings of boredom and monotony.

Impulsivity: Impulsive individuals may be prone to gambling because they seek immediate gratification of their needs and desires without considering the long-term consequences of their actions. The tendency to act quickly and without first considering the consequences can lead to repeated gambling and risk-taking behaviour in an attempt to recoup money lost.

Social factors

Social pressure and influence: Friends or family members who gamble can influence individuals to engage as well. In societies where gambling is seen as an acceptable form of entertainment or even a quick route to wealth, individuals may be more easily persuaded to participate. The availability of gambling, especially with the advent of online gambling platforms, lowers barriers to entry and allows players to play more easily and more frequently.

Age: Encountering gambling at a young age can contribute to the development of gambling later in life. When children and adolescents are exposed to gambling, whether they participate directly or indirectly by watching adults around them, it can lead to the normalisation of gambling as an acceptable form of entertainment or even a pathway to success.

Accessibility: Easy access to gambling, whether in brick-and-mortar casinos or online environments, lowers barriers to entry, increases the likelihood of engagement and allows players to play more easily and more often. In today's age where internet access is virtually ubiquitous, online gambling has become easily accessible to the general public.

Promotion: Although gambling promotion is subject to regulation, it can still have the power to attract new players, including those who are already struggling financially and gambling offers them a way to get rich quick and solve their problems.

Biological factors

Genetic predisposition: Some research shows that gambling and other forms of addiction are more common in some families, suggesting a possible genetic component. These individuals may have an innate susceptibility to addiction, which increases their risk of developing problem gambling.

Neurochemical processes: Gambling can stimulate the brain's reward systems in a similar way to other forms of addiction, leading to the release of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and leading to feelings of euphoria and excitement. These pleasurable feelings associated with gaming can lead to addiction.

Economic factors

Financial hardship: Individuals who are struggling with debt, unemployment or other financial problems may see gambling as a quick way to resolve their situation. This illusion of "getting rich quick" can lead to a dangerous cycle of winning and losing, in the hope of a big win that will solve all problems. But this often leads to even greater financial losses and deeper financial distress.

Economic instability and uncertainty: In times of economic instability or uncertainty, the drive for quick profits can be even more pronounced. Individuals may feel that traditional methods of financial security are unavailable or inadequate and therefore turn to gambling as an alternative solution to their economic problems.

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Can gambling addiction be prevented?

While the obvious way to prevent addiction is to avoid gambling altogether, there are other ways to prevent gambling addiction.

Financial limits

Set financial limits that you will not exceed. In licensed online casinos, financial limits can be set simply in the gaming account, which online casinos encourage and recommend.

When visiting a land-based casino, it is recommended to leave your credit card at home and only use a certain amount of cash. It is generally recommended to wager an amount that you can afford to lose.

Time limits

Set time limits on the length of play that you will adhere to. In licensed online casinos, you can set both the length of play and the number of logins in your gaming account, which greatly helps to keep your playing time under control.

In a brick-and-mortar casino, daylight is usually completely eliminated and no clocks are placed, making it easier for players to lose track of time. Therefore, before visiting a casino or gaming room, set a specific time limit after which you will stop playing and set a reminder or alarm on your mobile phone to alert you that it's time to leave.

Playing for fun

Gamblers should view gambling as a form of paid entertainment and not as a way to make money. If players end up in the black, they should consider it a bonus, not an expected outcome. This approach helps to see gambling as a form of entertainment and reduces the likelihood of disappointment and attempts to 'win back' money lost.

Other prevention methods

• Do not drink alcohol or use other mind-altering substances while gambling.

• Only bet an amount that I can afford to lose.

• Share experiences, progress and challenges with a trusted friend. A sense of responsibility can be a strong deterrent to making rash and impulsive decisions while gambling.

• Understanding common myths about gambling and knowing the odds of winning (everything is random, even though it may not seem so).

The causes of gambling are multifaceted and interrelated. Understanding these causes is key to the prevention and eventual treatment of gambling. It is important that individuals struggling with problem gambling are not afraid to seek professional help.

Article Sources

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• Gambling Addiction Causes I AddictionHelp [online]. [cited 2024 Mar 22]. Available from: https: //www.addictionhelp.com/gambling/causes/

• Gambling and mental health | Mental Health Foundation [online]. [cited 2024-03-22]. Available from: https: //www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/a-z-topics/gambling-and-mental-health

• How to Prevent a Gambling Addiction | Steve Rose, PhD [online]. [cited 22. 03. 2024]. Available from: https: //steverosephd.com/how-to-prevent-a-gambling-addiction/