Gambling

For most people, gambling is an enjoyable and harmless activity. However, for a small minority, gambling can become both addictive and problematic. Pathological gambling appears in the fourth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) in the category “impulse control disorder not elsewhere classified” along with other disorders such as kleptomania or pyromania (American Psychiatric Association, 1994). Generally, pathological gambling can be described as a persistent and recurrent maladaptive gambling behavior that disrupts personal, family, or vocational pursuits. The DSM-IV criteria highlight loss of control, with-drawal symptoms, tolerance as well as relapse and suggest a strong similarity to substance abuse disorders, although unique (gambling-specific) characteristics are also evident (e.g., chasing).