definition of pathological gambling disorder

However, data suggest a closer relationship between pathological gambling and substance use disorders than exists between PG and obsessive-compulsive disorder, largely because the behaviors in problem gambling and most primary substance use disorders (i.e. Pathological gambling was long considered by the American Psychiatric Association to be an impulse control disorder rather than an addiction. The term gambling addiction has long been used in the recovery movement. The DSM-5 has re-classified the condition as an addictive disorder, with sufferers exhibiting many similarities to those who have substance addictions. Pathological gambling is a common disorder that is associated with both social and family costs. Severe problem gambling may be diagnosed as clinical pathological gambling if the gambler meets certain criteria. Problem gambling is often defined by whether harm is experienced by the gambler or others, rather than by the gambler's behaviour.

Problem gambling is an urge to gamble continuously despite negative consequences or a desire to stop.

Definition of pathological gambling disorder