Gambling involves risking something of value, such as money or goods, on an outcome based on chance. It is common for people to place bets on sports events, lottery results, online gaming machines, and video games with gambling elements for adults and children. It is also possible for individuals to gamble in person at casinos located in major cities such as Las Vegas and Atlantic City or through private gambling establishments. The emergence of mobile technology and the expansion of legalized gambling in many states has made it easier than ever to place a bet. Compulsive gambling can affect people of all ages.
The term “gambling” may be used to refer to any activity in which wealth changes hands, primarily on the basis of chance and with a conscious awareness of risk to the gambler. Such activities include betting, fruit machines, lotteries, casino games, card games and scratchcards. They do not involve creative effort, useful skills or responsible investment. The hope of winning is the dominant motivation. The desire for sensation and novelty is a secondary motivation. The fear of losing is an aversive emotion.
A major psychiatric disorder associated with gambling is pathological gambling, an impulse control disorder classified as “Disorder of Impulse Control Not Elsewhere Classified” in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV). People who suffer from this disorder have difficulty controlling their urges to gamble. The result is excessive betting and losses. Pathological gambling can cause problems with work, family and other relationships, and has been linked to criminal behavior, substance abuse, and suicide.
It is estimated that more than half of the population in the United Kingdom takes part in some form of gambling activity. For most, it is a harmless pastime that provides some enjoyment and social interaction. However, for some individuals, the consequences of gambling are much more serious and can ruin their lives by affecting their health and well-being, their ability to do their job or study, damaging their family and friendships and leaving them in debt. Some have even committed suicide.
In addition, some research indicates that gambling is a psychologically addictive activity, and it has been suggested that compulsive gambling is more likely to occur in people with a high level of impulsivity. This is supported by the findings that individuals who engage in gambling are more likely to experience a range of negative psychological symptoms, including depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts.
The Christian faith opposes all forms of gambling because it promotes greed and covetousness, which is idolatry. God’s Word teaches us to seek first his kingdom and His righteousness, and not our own desires (1 Timothy 6:6). The Bible also warns against putting riches and pleasures above godliness (2 Corinthians 10:10). Gambling is a clear violation of the commandment to be content with our material possessions (1 Timothy 6:8) and to not love money (2 Corinthians 8:9). It is also a violation of the commandment not to be anxious (1 Timothy 6:6).