Addictions

Gambling : Article Synopsis

The article Problem Gambling in Adults : An Overview ' by Lamberton and Oei discusses the problems associated with gambling . The authors argue that legalizing gambling has led to increased rates of problem gambling among adults and , what is more awful , among adolescents . The purpose of the study is to provide in-depth analysis and overview of pathological gambling in adults , as well as to review treatment variables involved in recovery from gambling dependency . Pathological gambling is a serious dis which disables impulse control affecting males the most as women are

considered less hot-tem petered . Common pro of the pathological gambler is viewed as the following : male , 40-45 , married with better than average education , employed (p .85 ) The authors argue that gambling rates are significantly higher among non-whites

The authors argue that there is a relation between pathological gambling and social and personal problems and hardships . For example , marital difficulties are considered one of the widespread reasons of pathological gambling . Furthermore , problem gamblers suffer from chronic aches , chest pains , breathing difficulties , dental problems , alcohol addiction , and numbness in legs and arms (p .85 ) Many gamblers show signs of irritability , sleep diss , gastrointestinal diss and problems with blood tension (p . 91 ) Social and economic costs of pathological gambling are limitations on individual societal contribution . Familial gambling is one of the risk factors as it has important environmental influence on a person . One more risk factor is sexual and physical abuse (p .86 ) The authors distinguish several types of gamblers . The authors classify gamblers as professionals and non-professionals , low-stake gamblers and high-stake gamblers recreationals and regulars , etc (p .87 ) Therefore , urgent treatment measures should be taken to prevent pathological gambling . Treatment alternatives are family therapy , pharmacotherapy , behavioural therapy cognitive therapy , couples therapy and minimal treatment (p .94-98

References

Lamberton , A , Oei , T .P .S (1997 . Problem Gambling in Adults : An Overview . Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy , 4 , 2 , 84-104

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Gamling Addiction...