Pathological Gambling
Pathological gambling and problem gambling affect approximately 1-3 % of adults, men more often than women. As legalized gambling has become more common, compulsive gambling has increased. To be diagnosed with a psychiatric condition, called pathological gambling disorder, the individual must exhibit at least four out nine behaviors, which include: gambling larger amounts than intended, irritability if unable to gamble, sacrificing important activities, attempts to win back loses at the same place, frequent preoccupation with gambling, increased betting to maintain interest, and reputed efforts to reduce or stop gambling. (USA Today, April 1999). Robert ter, M.D , says that gambling happens in a three phase model, these phases include the winning phase, the losing phase, and the depression phase. The winning phase is when gamblers experience a big win or a series of wins that leaves them with unreasonable optimism that their winning will continue. This leads them to feel great excitement w
Several studies have also shown a correlation between Adolescent Pathological gambling and Marijuana use, delinquencies, alcohol use, as well as family and academic problems. Youth whose parents gambled excessively had twice the number of problems with the law and twice the attempted suicide rate than their classmates (Jacobs,1999). Some researches believe that problematic gambling behavior is hereditary, while others feel it is a combination between inherited factors and environmental experiences during growth and developmental. Gambling problems can begin as an occasional habit. Later the urge to gamble becomes so great that the tension can only be relieved by more gambling. Many who do not meet the criteria for pathological gambling still find their lives and relationships affected by their problem. As one becomes more involved the stakes and personal risks become greater. Severe family problems, financial ruin and criminal behavior to support the gambling habit may result.( Yahoo Health, 2001).
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Approximate Word count = 679
Approximate Pages = 3 (250 words per page double spaced)
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