Gambling is a popular activity that involves betting or staking something of value on an uncertain event with the intent of winning a prize. This includes, but is not limited to, buying lottery tickets, playing cards for money, wagering on sports games and horse races, and playing video and other electronic gambling machines such as slots or poker. The amount of money legally wagered annually worldwide is estimated to be around $10 trillion.

Some people become addicted to gambling and others have a tendency to gamble for fun, with friends or family members, or as part of a job, hobby, or social group. There are several risk factors for problem gambling, including: age, gender (men tend to be more prone to problems than women), a family history of alcohol or other drug abuse, and the environment in which people gamble. People can develop a gambling disorder at any age, but it is more common for adolescents to become addicted to gambling than adults.

Pathological gambling is a mental health disorder that requires treatment. The disorder is characterized by preoccupation with gambling, persistent attempts to stop or control gambling, and negative consequences associated with the behavior, such as financial losses, legal issues, or relationship difficulties. People with pathological gambling often lie to friends and family about the extent of their involvement with gambling.

In some cultures, such as those of Indigenous peoples in Australia and New Zealand, gambling is a major form of recreation and entertainment. Those who participate in gambling at high levels may divert normal consumption expenditure from other businesses, which can have adverse effects on the economy. For every person who is affected by gambling at a high level, an average of six others are also affected.

Many different models have been advanced to explain pathological gambling. These include behavioral-environmental reasons, a general theory of addictions, and the reward deficiency syndrome. Some of these models have some empirical support, while others have less evidence.

Some studies suggest that a genetic component to the disorder exists. However, these studies are based on very small samples and do not show clear-cut genetic patterns. Whether or not gene-based models can be applied to the study of pathological gambling is a matter of ongoing debate in the field.

People who are preoccupied with gambling may think about reliving past gambling experiences, handicapping or planning their next venture, or finding ways to get even after a loss (“chasing” their losses). They also may be dishonest or deceitful when asked questions about their involvement with gambling. They may hide gambling from friends and family or rely on others to provide money for them to gamble, which can lead to severe economic problems. They might also feel depressed or suicidal because of their gambling behavior. For these reasons, they should be treated with a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy and medications. In addition, they may need to take part in other psychiatric interventions, such as psychoeducational or relapse prevention programs.