Gambling is an activity in which participants place bets or wagers with money or other assets for a chance to win. This can include scratch-off lottery tickets, playing video or casino games, and betting on sporting events such as horse races and football matches. It can also include private bets between friends or family members, such as dice games and roulette.
Despite its popularity, gambling is not without risk. It can lead to compulsive behaviour and addiction, especially when it is used to relieve boredom or stress, to manage financial distress, or as a way to feel more in control of life. Problem gamblers often spend more than they can afford and are at high risk of losing their money and homes. They can also experience severe psychological problems, including depression and anxiety.
People who have a gambling problem often hide their behavior and lie about how much they are spending, but it is possible to learn healthier ways to relieve unpleasant feelings. Try exercising, spending time with friends who don’t gamble, or practicing relaxation techniques. It is also important to be aware of the potential for problem gambling in your family and to seek help if you notice any signs of it.
Gambling among young people has been rising steadily in recent years, and peaks around the age of 22-30. This coincides with an increase in the use of other risky activities such as drug and alcohol abuse and suicide.
The longitudinal ALSPAC (Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children) cohort has collected a rich source of data on many risk factors, including gambling. Participants completed a survey on their gambling habits when they were 17 years old, and again at 20 and 24 years. The survey included questions on the frequency of their gambling, and the antecedents of this behaviour.
Due to the large loss to follow-up, detailed multivariable analyses on individual antecedents were not possible. However, univariable analysis revealed that those who reported gambling at ages 17 and 20 years were more likely to be male, to have hyperactivity and conduct problems, to have higher sensation seeking scores, and to be living in households with low educational qualifications or in poverty.
In addition, those who were more frequent gamblers at ages 17 and 20 years were more than twice as likely to report gambling as those who never gambled. The antecedents most associated with gambling at both ages were parental gambling and having an internal locus of control.