Gambling is any activity in which someone stakes something of value for a chance at winning. It may occur in casinos, racetracks, sports events, and the Internet. Defining different types of gambling is important for legal regulations, consumer protection and identifying harmful gambling.
The term disordered gambling, coined by Howard Shaffer and others, is used to describe a range of behavior from those behaviors that place individuals at risk for developing more serious problems (subclinical) to those that would meet the diagnostic criteria in the fourth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV). It is important to note that gambling disorders are distinct from both addictions and mood disorders, and those with a disorder do not necessarily have a diagnosable mood or anxiety disorder.
Unlike other games of skill, most forms of gambling involve some form of chance. In addition, gamblers often do not think of the odds of winning as a rational process; they may instead emphasize luck or superstition (e.g., Romans 11:36; Colossians 1:16-17).
As a result, there are a variety of reasons why people may engage in gambling, including recreational interest, diminished mathematical skills, poor judgment, cognitive distortions, and mental illness. These varied perspectives have influenced the way that research scientists, psychiatrists and other treatment care clinicians, and public policy makers frame questions related to gambling.
In fact, the understanding of gambling has undergone a profound change in recent years, paralleling that which occurred with alcoholics and alcoholism. Historically, those who experienced negative consequences of gambling were viewed as having gamblers’ problems; today, they are more likely to be diagnosed with a psychological problem such as pathological gambling.
People who have a gambling disorder often feel the urge to gamble even when they know that it is not in their best interests. However, there are several ways to stop the urge to gamble, including obtaining support from friends and family and engaging in physical activities. Those with a gambling disorder can also seek help from a counselor or support group, such as Gamblers Anonymous.
There is evidence that gambling disproportionately affects poorer members of society, and it can be especially dangerous for young people. Gambling encourages a false sense of wealth, and it can undermine the biblical teaching that links honest labour with reward (Proverbs 28:26; Ephesians 5:10). It can also promote laziness and discredit work, which is condemned in the Bible (Romans 6:17; 2 Thessalonians 3:10). In addition, it denies God’s sovereignty and glorifies chance over Him (Job 42:2; Romans 11:36; Colossians 1:26). As a result, it can encourage idolatry and the worship of material things (Romans 1:24). Therefore, it is very important to be self-controlled and seek God’s Kingdom first (Matthew 6:30-34). If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, please contact The Gambling Center for help. We have trained staff who can assist you. The call is free and confidential.
