Gambling has been generally defined as betting or wagering money or something of value on an event that has an uncertain outcome with the possibility of winning money. It can also be defined as betting, gaming or participating in a lottery.
Problem gambling is defined as gambling behavior that causes disruptions in any major area of life: psychological, physical, social. research suggests that for every 1 problem gambler, a further 10 people are directly affected.
Psychology of gambling
From university of british columbia
Who does problem gambling affect?
Problem gambling can affect anyone. It can happen at any age, to males or females, and to people from any ethnic background. Problem gambling has been called the ‘hidden addiction’, meaning that unlike other addictions such as alcohol or drug addiction, the physical effects of the problem are very difficult to see. You are unlikely to know that someone has a gambling problem unless they tell you.