Pathological gambling
Definition
Pathological gambling is being unable to resist impulses to gamble, which can lead to severe personal or social consequences.
Alternative Names
Gambling - compulsive; Compulsive gambling; Addictive gambling
Causes
Pathological gambling usually begins in early adolescence in men, and between ages 20 and 40 in women. It is more common in adults living within 50 miles of a casino.
Pathological gambling is a brain disease that seems to be similar to disorders such as alcoholism and drug addiction. These disorders likely involve problems with the part of the brain involved with behaviors such as eating and sex. This part of the brain is sometimes called the "pleasure center" or dopamine reward pathway.
In people who develop pathological gambling, occasional gambling leads to a gambling habit. Stressful situations can worsen gambling problems.
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