NCJ Number
243065
Date Published
2013
Length
46 pages
Annotation
This guide presents a research-based explanation of gambling behavior as a manifestation of a mental disorder, so it may be appropriately addressed in mental health courts and treatment regimens.
Abstract
Although gambling behavior by itself may be a crime in certain contexts under various jurisdictional laws, the primary concern of this guide is its link to such crimes as embezzlement and theft which may be committed to support a gambling habit. It can also have devastating socioeconomic effects on families and work. The guide defines a "gambling addiction" as a persistent and recurrent maladaptive gambling behavior that disrupts personal, family, or vocational opportunities." Approximately 1 percent of the general adult population in the United States has had a gambling disorder in their lifetime. In 2013, the American Psychological Association moved the diagnosis of a gambling disorder under the same umbrella as alcohol and other drug-use disorders in the fifth edition of the diagnostic manual (DSM-5). This guide outlines the symptoms of a gambling disorder and identifies the factors that place a person at risk for a gambling disorder. A distinction is made between healthy, recreational gambling and disordered gambling behavior. Screening for a gambling disorder under the Brief Biosocial Gambling Screen (BBGS) is explained. A major section of the guide then focuses on addressing gambling disorders in the legal system. The guide promotes integrating a gambling disorder into existing drug or other therapeutic courts, with attention to co-occurring disorders that may also be linked to a gambling disorder. A perspective is provided by a judge in Clark County, NV, who is mindful of the nature of gambling disorders among people who come before her court (Eighth Judicial District Court). The guide concludes with an overview of treatment techniques for a gambling disorder. Annotated listing of resources