[Dependence on gambling].

Abstract

The indicated symptomatology of pathological gambling makes clear that a reduction of the problematic nature of addiction to substance dependence - alcohol, illegal drugs and medicaments - is not valid. Beside the consumption of substance, gambling as well can produce the desired effect, cause pleasant sensations or avoid aversion and addictive behavior can develop. Biological, psychological and sociological theories of pathological gambling are presented, each of which does not serve as a convincing frame of arguments. On the contrary considerations have to be based on an interaction between individual, gambling and social surrounding field to do justice to complex reality. As a matter of fact the actual state of research leaves many questions unanswered. A completion or alternative to the professional methods of treatment consists in the self-help groups which have been founded by dependent gamblers in many cities during the last few years.