Psychology of gambling: Review paper

This 2010 paper provides an overview of major developments in understanding gambling and gambling-related harm from a psychological perspective.

It commences with a brief background context and then examines gambling harm as a significant individual, community and public health issue. An account of current psychological theories and research on problematic gambling behaviour is followed by discussion of recent initiatives in reducing gambling harm and treating problem gambling.

Despite its importance to Australia as a significant public health and wellbeing issue, our knowledge of gambling remains limited, while new markets and gambling platforms are rapidly expanding. Psychology is contributing to a growing evidence base but further development in a number of areas is required. Greater understanding of the effects of exposure and access to gambling activities, particularly those most likely to cause harm, needs to be progressed.

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