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Characteristics of The Addicted Gambler |
Characteristic behaviour of the addicted gambler is as follows:
Before Gambling:
- An increasing preoccupation with gambling, to the point where nothing else is important. This is often experienced as sensed of ‘craving’.
- A fear that they may miss an opportunity to win. How many times have we heard of the unhappy person whose lucky numbers turned up but who had forgotten to buy their tickets?
- Irrational confidence and fantasies about winning.
- Excitement in anticipation of buying the ‘winning’ ticket. Fantasizing what to do with the winnings.
- Irritation, anger and mounting tension if something prevents them from gambling.
During Gambling:
- A total focus of attention on gambling; all else fades in importance.
- Excitement and physical arousal, shown by increased heart rate.
- Irrational talk inside their head: the next bet is the winner I have been waiting for. “It must be my turn soon for a large win, I just know it.”
- Superstitious behaviour to increases the chances of a win.
After Gambling :
- Relief and anticipation of the next occasion.
- Confidence (I knew I could do it) and a conviction that winning was a result of skill.
- Elated mood.
- Inflated ego, having beaten ‘them’ at their own game.
- Self-satisfaction at having money and being able to impress a partner or spouse.
The losing gambler experiences:
- Guilt and remorse.
- Fear of spouse or others finding out.
- Worry over where to obtain money to cover living expenses.
- Thoughts of what lies to tell to cover one’s actions.
- Self-directed anger.
- Anger directed at the casino or tote
- Determination never to gamble again – but at the same time, thoughts of where to find money in order to
- chasing losses.
- Desire to forget problems through alcohol.
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