When a person is thinking of going to a casino, they might be surprised to learn that most problem gamblers are male, middle-aged, and younger. Additionally, they are less likely to be Protestants. But what causes people to become problem gamblers? Is it a genetic predisposition? Or are gambling operations designed to make money? Let’s explore these issues. This article will provide you with some tips and suggestions for preventing your loved one from becoming a problem gambler.
Problem gamblers are more likely to be younger or middle-aged
Despite the fact that problem gamblers are more likely to be younger or middle-aged, there are still some common characteristics of this type of individual. In fact, the DSM-IV-TR identifies 10 criteria for the diagnosis of pathological gambling, including increasing the amount of money a person wagers in order to experience increased excitement, lying to others about their involvement in gambling, and committing illegal acts to finance their habit. Generally, these conditions require five of the ten criteria to be present.
Age is a major risk factor for developing a gambling problem. Many people mistakenly think of problem gambling as a problem among the young or middle-aged. In fact, problem gambling is one of the fastest-growing populations of problem gamblers, and the number of elderly people is expected to continue increasing as the baby-boomer generation retires. As a senior citizen, it can be difficult to recognize a senior who is exhibiting signs of problem gambling.
Problem gamblers are more likely to be female
A recent study showed that female problem gamblers suffered from more mental distress and suicidal behavior than their male counterparts. Even though problem gambling is more common among women, men can suffer from it as well. The financial consequences of excessive gambling can affect families and relationships. Understanding and treating problem gambling needs to take gender into account. This concept is becoming increasingly recognized in other areas of public health. For example, gender-based treatment may better target a woman’s needs.
According to researchers at the University of New Mexico, males are seven-and-a-half times more likely than women to become problem gamblers. In addition to the fact that men are more prone to gambling, they are more likely to develop an unhealthy habit. According to Dr. Robert Lefever, a gambling addict himself, women develop a gambling habit at an earlier age and begin to gamble more frequently than men. This accelerated the need for treatment.
Problem gamblers are less likely to be Protestant
A study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that problem gambling severity was associated with religious service attendance. Although both measures of religion were significantly associated with problem gambling, they were moderated by gender. This finding suggests that religion has multiple dimensions, and it is important to consider different measures of religiosity when examining problem gambling. Protestants are more likely to be religious than other members of the same group, although this finding has not been replicated in other studies.
Christians are taught to love their enemies. The Bible tells us to love our enemies. According to Matthew 5:44, we must love our neighbors as ourselves. As Christians, our love-obligation to others should limit our choices. If gambling is a form of risk-taking, Christians should avoid it. Further, Christians should also seek to minimize their suffering and avoid risky behavior. However, this message may not resonate with all Protestants.