Psychosocial Determinants of Gambling Addiction: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Gambling addiction, also known as pathological gambling or gambling disorder, is a complex behavioral addiction with significant psychosocial determinants. This comprehensive review synthesizes existing literature to elucidate the multifaceted interplay between psychosocial factors and the development and maintenance of gambling addiction. The review examines various psychological, social, and environmental determinants implicated in the etiology of gambling addiction, including cognitive distortions, impulsivity, social influences, and accessibility to gambling opportunities. Furthermore, the review discusses the implications of these determinants for prevention, intervention, and treatment strategies aimed at addressing gambling addiction.

Keywords: Gambling addiction, Pathological gambling, Psychosocial determinants, Cognitive distortions, Impulsivity, Social influences