Gambling is a form of entertainment in which people place wagers on the outcome of a game of chance or skill. In addition to casinos and racetracks, gambling occurs in many other places, including bars, restaurants, church halls, lottery kiosks, and on the Internet. There are several types of gambling:
While some people gamble for money, others do it for fun or to socialize with friends. The activity can cause problems when people are unable to control their spending, lose control of their finances, or lie about the extent of their gambling. People who are concerned about a friend or family member’s gambling may seek help from a professional.
Researchers and clinicians have varied opinions about when gambling becomes a problem. They have also debated how to define compulsive gambling. Various warning signs have been identified, including: