Help for Problem Gamblers
Phases of the Gambling Experience
for the Pathological Gambler
Professionals treating Pathological Gamblers have detected patterns in the experiences of these individuals. The following phases are generalizations, however they are found in some form among most individuals diagnosed with Pathological Gambling.
Preparatory Period
Most Pathological Gamblers have vulnerabilities that include fragile and tense sense of self. They tend to be impulsive, anxious, and depressed. They have a low tolerance for frustration, a need for immediate gratification, engage in magical and delusional thinking, and have high energy and need for arousal and excitement.A high number of Pathological Gamblers come from dysfunctional family systems that include parental indifference and/or abuse. Money and the power and the prestige associated with money are emphasized within their families. Gambling is available within their families. Family members often use gambling and alcohol to avoid or escape from problems.
Winning Phase
There is a slow but progressive escalation of involvement in gambling, with an increasing need for more money with which to gamble. The gambler often scores one or several “big wins,” which encourages him or her to gamble. Additional wins reinforce the pattern; money means more than before and is associated with social rewards; money “buys” importance, attention, specialness, and is a euphoric or depressant.The gambler is compelled to continually increase the amounts wagered and the frequency of placing bets. The gambler searches for access to gambling action. The gambler engages in magical thinking about luck. The gambler’s lifestyle begins to center around gambling.
Losing Phase
Losses mount and “chasing of losses” begins. A plunge and lose pattern develops. Personal problems and social losses mount. Pathological Gamblers begin to lie and violate the trust of those important to them. Delusional thinking becomes prominent. Pathological Gamblers begin to seek and often receive emotional and financial bailouts from friends and family members.
Desperation Phase
During this phase, gambling losses increase dramatically. Pathological Gamblers make futile attempts to control and limit their increasing social isolation and depression. They often attempt, but fail, to control or stop their gambling. They often have thoughts of suicide and suffer health problems. During this phase, many Pathological Gamblers resort to illegal acts to get money for their gambling.
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