Gambling involves staking something of value on an event that is unpredictable, such as the outcome of a game or contest of chance. Unlike other forms of risk taking (such as investing in securities and contracts of indemnity or guaranty) gambling does not involve bona fide business transactions that are legal under the law.

There are several psychological and neurological mechanisms that can contribute to a person’s tendency to gamble. These include sensation-and novelty-seeking, arousal, and negative emotions. There is also evidence that impulsiveness and the inability to delay gratification play a role in gambling behavior.

It is estimated that 2.5 million U.S adults (1%) have a severe problem with gambling, while another 5-8 million (2-3%) have mild or moderate problems. However, these estimates may be underestimating the magnitude of the problem since people with gambling disorders often do not seek treatment and are not identified by health care providers.

One of the primary causes of gambling disorders is a lack of self-control, which is associated with a weak prefrontal cortex. In addition, individuals who are prone to gamble can become trapped in a cycle of losses, which leads to a worsening of their gambling disorder.

Some people start gambling because they are seeking a way to relieve unpleasant feelings, such as boredom or loneliness. They can find relief in more productive ways, such as exercising, spending time with friends who do not gamble, or practicing relaxation techniques. If a loved one is struggling with a gambling addiction, it’s important to reach out for help. Family therapy and marriage, career, and credit counseling can help to repair the damage caused by problematic gambling behavior. In addition, setting boundaries in managing money can help to reduce the temptation to gamble. For example, limiting the amount of money you bring to a casino and only using cash or an ATM card can help prevent spending too much.