Gambling involves placing something of value on a random event that has an uncertain outcome and the intent to win another thing of value. The activity is distinguished from insurance by the fact that gamblers do not assume the risk of losing an asset of value by paying for protection (insurance) with money or other assets of their own. This difference in risk-taking is what distinguishes gambling from other forms of recreation, such as sports, which can also involve betting on the outcomes of games or contests.

A person with a gambling problem may exhibit a variety of signs and symptoms. The most prominent feature is the urge to engage in gambling activities despite the potential for negative consequences, as well as a compulsion to keep returning to gambling. The behavior also results in a loss of control over gambling, with a person often hiding the extent to which they gamble from family and friends.

Many people are predisposed to gambling problems because of genetic traits or environmental influences. A tendency to be impulsive and a predisposition to high levels of anxiety and depression are also risk factors. Males are more prone to developing gambling problems than women, although men and women can both develop problems at any age. People who spend large amounts of time playing video games or mobile phone apps that require micro-transactions or payments are more likely to have gambling problems, as are people who grew up in households where there was a history of gambling or other types of addictive behaviors.

Those with gambling addictions can benefit from support groups, therapy, and treatment programs. Treatment options include inpatient or residential care, where a person lives in a facility where they are free from the temptation to gamble. Intensive outpatient therapy, where a person attends sessions several times a week and receives individual or group counseling, is another option. Many people who struggle with gambling addictions find recovery through a 12-step program, such as Gamblers Anonymous, which is modeled after Alcoholics Anonymous.

People with gambling problems can also find help through self-help programs, such as online support groups or peer support programs. In these programs, people share their experiences and tips with others who are struggling with the same issues. They can also learn healthier ways to cope with unpleasant emotions, such as stress and boredom, by exercising, spending time with non-gambling friends, or taking up new hobbies.

Various models and theories have been proposed to explain pathological gambling. These include a general theory of addiction, the reward deficiency syndrome, behavioral-environmental reasons, and a biopsychosocial model. However, the lack of an agreed-on nomenclature for psychiatric disorders has hindered the development and validation of these models. It is critical to develop a more precise definition of problem gambling severity, so researchers, psychiatrists, and other treatment care clinicians can use the same terms when describing their findings.