Review article
Gambling as a behavioral addiction: challenges and a review of recent literature
Marta Čivljak
orcid.org/0000-0001-6211-0174
; Catholic University of Croatia, Zagreb, Croatia
*
* Corresponding author.
Abstract
Although gambling is often perceived by the public as a form of entertainment, there is growing evidence that, in vulnerable individuals, it can develop into a behavioral addiction with the characteristics of a serious mental disorder. The aim of this review paper is to analyze current knowledge on gambling addiction by examining its etiology, diagnostic criteria, prevalence, risk and protective factors, and therapeutic approaches, with a particular focus on public health and regulatory aspects. The literature reviewed includes scientific and expert publications, with a particular focus on systematic reviews, meta-analyses, diagnostic manuals, and epidemiological reports. According to contemporary classification systems for mental and physical disorders, gambling disorder is classified as a form of addiction, showing significant neurobiological and clinical similarities with substance use disorders. The prevalence of gambling behavior varies significantly, but is particularly pronounced among young people and online gambling users. Psychological traits, age, gender, and regulatory context have been identified as key risk factors for gambling. Gambling addiction is often associated with severe psychosocial consequences, including a high rate of comorbid mental disorders and an increased risk of suicidal ideation and behavior. Despite the availability of effective therapeutic interventions, only a small proportion of affected individuals seek professional help, which presents a challenge for healthcare systems and calls for a comprehensive public health response.
Keywords
gambling, risk factors, public health, treatment, addiction, behavioral addiction, prevalence
Hrčak ID:
333815
URI
Publication date:
17.7.2025.
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