Problem gambling is an impulse control disorder. While gambling may be a form of insurance and betting, it is also a disorder that interferes with one’s ability to manage emotions and make decisions. Haller looked at the changing structure of American gambling throughout the twentieth century in Journal of Social Issues, 35.3 (1979), pp. 87-114. Wiktionary offers a definition of gambling and related terms. Wikiquote features quotations and media related to gambling.
Problem gambling is an impulse-control disorder
Psychiatrists have been looking for the cause of problem gambling for years. In the past, they believed that money was the cause of problem gambling, and therefore it had to be cured. However, they have now discovered that money is just an impulse, and that it can actually lead to a cascade of problems. Moreover, pathological gamblers often hide their behavior from other people, often borrowing from friends or relatives. This article explains how pathological gamblers can cure their disorder.
It is a continuum
Despite the fact that the effects of gambling are not limited to the person who is a problem gambler, it is still important to recognize that the harms caused by the behaviour may vary in severity and duration. There is a continuum of gambling harm, ranging from low risk to high risk. This continuum is relevant to harm reduction efforts at a population level. Despite its high prevalence, gambling harm is not limited to the individual.
It is a form of insurance
In insurance, the risk is aggregated so that it is lower than the individual risks of the individuals involved. Similarly, in gambling, the parties never intend to lose, but want to win. This distinction is important because gambling and insurance are similar, but insurance differs in several ways. One difference is that insurance companies can make money from the gamblers. Therefore, gambling and insurance are both forms of risk management.
It is a form of business
The practice of gambling is widely considered to be a form of business. It is profitable to conduct such activities, and is considered to be of benefit to society as a whole. It has the added advantage of acquiring venture capital and spreading statistical risks. This makes gambling a highly popular business to start. But how does gambling differ from other types of businesses? What are the advantages and disadvantages of gambling? Let us explore these in further detail.
It is a form of entertainment
Today, gambling is a very popular activity, and has grown in popularity significantly. It is a form of entertainment, and the commercial aspect of gambling is significant, totaling $335 billion in 2009. The activity can be conducted with any material of value. A player of marbles might wager on the value of the marbles, while players of Magic: The Gathering may stake collectible game pieces. This can create a meta-game about the player’s collection.