by Jerry "Jet" Whittaker
November 11, 2006
Today legalized gambling is one of the fastest growing
industries in almost every part of the world. The tremendous popularity of
gambling has resulted in the gradual increase in the number of off track
betting parlors or river boat casinos. For most of the people who are a part
of this industry gambling is only a fun and a harmless form of
entertainment. But to four to six percent of the peoples who changes into
problem or pathological gamblers, gambling can prove to be a devastating
illness affecting almost every aspect of their lives. This type of
situations also known as gambling addiction should be avoided for the
overall betterment of the society.
Difference between addiction and casual gambling
The normal form of gambling which is played as a game of
chance for stakes is known as casual gambling. It occurs in many forms such
as pari-mutuels, lotteries, casinos, bookmaking, card rooms, bingo and the
stock market. However gambling addiction or pathological gambling is a
progressive disease that completely destroys not only the gambler but
everyone with whom he or she has a significant relationship. A well known
expert in the related field has described gambling addiction as “a complex
disorder of impulse control”. It is referred to as a disease which is
chronic and progressive but can be easily diagnosed and treated.
Phases of gambling addiction
A well expert in the
related field has described progression of
gambling addiction through three
phases. The first one being the winning phase where the gambler comes across
a big win or a series wins which gives them a false optimism that the
winning will continue and hence increases the amount of bets. The second
phase known as the losing phase where the gamblers start bragging for the
win which have had and start borrowing money legally or illegally. The last
phase or the desperation phase is characterized by the increase in the
amount of time spent on gambling accompanied by suicidal thoughts and
attempts, arrests or an emotional breakdown.
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