Posted: September 6th, 2023

According to the DSM-5, gambling disorder

Refer to the most recent version of the DSM to answer the following questions:

What defines a gambling disorder?
What are the warning signs for a gambling disorder?
Include at least one scholarly source to support your response. Cite any scholarly references accordingly using in-text citations and a reference list.

This discussion question meets the following NASAC Standards:

4) Recognize the potential for substance use disorders to mimic a variety of medical and psychological disorders, and the potential for medical and psychological disorders to co-exist with addiction and substance abuse.

10) Describe a variety of helping strategies for reducing the negative effects of substance abuse and dependency.

106) Describe principles and philosophies of prevention, treatment, relapse, and recovery.

_______________________

According to the DSM-5, gambling disorder is characterized by persistent and recurrent problematic gambling behavior that leads to significant distress or impairment. To meet the criteria for gambling disorder, an individual must exhibit at least four of the following symptoms within a 12-month period:

Needing to gamble with increasing amounts of money to achieve the desired excitement.
Being restless or irritable when attempting to cut down or stop gambling.
Making repeated unsuccessful efforts to control, cut back, or stop gambling.
Being preoccupied with gambling (e.g., constantly thinking about past gambling experiences, planning the next gambling session, or devising ways to obtain money to gamble).
Often gambling when feeling distressed (e.g., helpless, guilty, anxious, or depressed).
After losing money gambling, often returning another day to get even (“chasing” one’s losses).
Lying to conceal the extent of gambling involvement.
Jeopardizing or losing significant relationships, jobs, education, or career opportunities because of gambling.
Relying on others to provide money to relieve desperate financial situations caused by gambling.
These symptoms are indicators of gambling disorder, but a diagnosis requires professional evaluation and assessment by a qualified mental health professional.

Scholarly Source:
Petry, N. M., & Blanco, C. (2013). National survey of problem gambling services in the United States. Psychiatric Services, 64(5), 486-489.

Please note that you should refer to the most recent version of the DSM and consult additional scholarly sources to ensure the accuracy and currency of the information provided.