A paper which overviews compulsivegambling, gives examples of addictive gamblers behavioral patterns and finally lists common and extreme treatments for compulsive gamblers.
Abstract This paper begins by describing addictive gambling and what causes it. It then cites various examples of compulsive gamblers and the devastation that they have experienced as a result of their adiction. It explains their behavioral problems and patterns. Finally the paper lists resources such a Gamblers Anonymous and other treatments available for compulsivegambling.
From the Paper "Many people today suffer from a variety of addictions. The first assumption commonly related with addiction is substance abuse, addiction to a drug or alcohol. While drug and alcohol abuse are serious issues that people battle with everyday, there is an emerging addiction that is similar to substance abuse with effects that are just as devastating. Addiction to gambling is a serious problem that is plaguing our country slowly and unnoticeably. Not only is gambling addicting for some people, it can have devastating effects on the addict and the addict's family. Evidence supports the probability that many people are not aware of the increase of gambling addicts in society and furthermore are unaware of the effects of problem gambling. However, after studies of problem gamblers involving what drives a gambling addict, there are resources to help cure addictive gamblers."
Tags: Pathological, legalized, lottery, Atlantic, City, casino, alcoholism
Abstract In this paper, the writer argues that gambling addiction is a serious problem that affects people regardless of their gender, although demographics and culture may vary in different areas. The writer looks at six perspectives on compulsivegambling from the existing literature on the subject, at times looking at specific questions of gender, which respectively are representative of social, cognitive and developmental perspectives. The writer maintains that men and women gamble differently and have different ages of onset for chronic gambling problems, often according to culture and gender roles. The writer concludes that chronic gambling affects both men and women, but in different ways, which can be seen through perspectives in existing literature.
Outline:
Introduction
Social
Cognitive
Developmental
Conclusion
From the Paper "Compulsive gambling from this standpoint starts as a social activity, but winds up an isolating one.
"The theory of social learning or social behavior is also prominent among theories explaining addictive behavior, because when children see their parents gambling or playing cards for money all the time, it gives them exposure. Also, when adolescents rebel against their parents and see their friends gambling on sports games and gambling with cards, this is also a strong time for peer pressure which could cause addictive behavior. So generally the cause has to be tailored to the individual, so that the treatment and prevention efforts can continue in the same way, from a social development perspective of psychology. "
Tags: addiction, development, disorder, men, women
Abstract The writer discusses that the positive effects of organized gambling on many aspects of modern life outweigh the harmful effects predicted by those who oppose legalizing organized gambling. The author mentions that opponents have beaten the drum concerning addiction to gambling, characterizing it as demonic and likely to ruin the lives of countless millions, as drug and alcohol addiction are said to do. Proponents of legalizing organized gambling contend, instead, that gambling is not an addiction, but a choice, and that the revenues to be derived from legalizing organized gambling can be used to among other things help reduce the real addictions in the United States to narcotics and alcohol.
From the Paper "Whether or not there is any truly psychological or pathological component in gambling (and Vatz makes a good case that there is not), there are positive societal effects of gambling, not least of which is the contribution it makes to the modern economy. For example, with dotcoms having plunged from their initial moneymaking heights, "The online gambling industry remains one of the Internet's few cash cows, with much of its success owed to an increase in demand from U.S. consumers" (Krebs, 2003). Despite the efforts of various politicians, such as the Maryland Speaker of the House, to curb gambling in various states, the virtually untouchable Internet makes it possible for anyone, anywhere to gamble. Americans are responsible, globally, for most of the growth in online gambling. The U.S. General Accounting Office projected Internet gambling revenues at above $5 billion in 2003, "with 50 to 70 percent of that revenue from U.S. customers" (Krebs, 2003)."
Abstract This paper examines pathological gambling as a disease. The author examines the various stages that one undergoes, the threats that gambling imposes and the different symptoms and solutions to the disorder.
From the Paper "Pathological gambling is often called a "hidden addiction" since prominent indications such as needle tracks or impaired conversation skills cannot be observed in this disorder. However, pathological gambling can be as destructive as other forms of addiction such as chemical dependency. Some similarities can be found between pathological gambling and chemical dependency. For example, many of those compulsive gamblers experience an inability to stop the addiction, severe depression, mood swings, and low self-esteem just as many drug addicts or alcoholics do. Also the characteristics of pathological gambling- the sudden euphoria and the marked dysphoria- are similar to the characteristics of dependency on cocaine."
Abstract The paper emphasizes the important role gambling can play in society, both in the economic and business sectors as well as in the charitable and community fields. The paper then contrasts this with the problems that compulsivegambling can lead to, such as crime and social dysfunction. The paper concludes by stressing the need to strike a balance in order to obtain the advantages of gambling, but evade its harmful impacts.
From the Paper "Many people see gambling as an evil, as Thorstein Veblen stated that gambling is "a hindrance to the highest industrial efficiency of the aggregate in any community where it prevails" and concluded that "it should be seen as destructive in an industrial society" (Veblen, 1899 cited in Campell, Felicia,1976). On the other hand, some people think that "gambling makes up a major portion of the economy, show that, by and large, gambling is beneficial to the gambler and increases rather than decreases his efficiency and productivity" (Campell, Felicia, 1976).
Abstract This paper looks at the public policy issue of whether slot machine gambling should be legalized in Maryland. The paper looks at the benefits of putting such a policy into action, as well as what the negative effects would be if such a policy were not enacted.
From the Paper "The major policy issue presented in the July 5, 2004 Washington Post article "Pa. Lawmakers Approve Slots, Troubling Ehlrich" is whether the State of Maryland should revisit its current gambling policy of not allowing slot machines to operate in the state, and instead change the policy to legalize slot machine gambling in Maryland. The issue of slot machine gambling has some urgency, arising from the State of Pennsylvania recently passing legislation allowing 61,000 slot machines at more than a dozen sites in the state. Following the actions of legislators in Pennsylvania, the State of Maryland is now surrounded by states with legalized slot machine gambling. The fear of proponents for slot machine gambling in Maryland, including Governor Robert L. Ehrlich Jr. (R), is that the state will continue to see money leave the state as residents go elsewhere to gamble. Money will not only leave the state as residents gamble elsewhere, but the state government's revenues will be adversely impacted as well, since new revenues through in-state gambling will not be realized under the current policy. The current policy of not allowing gambling could therefore impact other economic, social and environmental policies."
Abstract In this article, the writer looks at the obsessive-compulsive disorder. The paper also discusses the treatments that are currently available to deal with this disorder. Other questions addressed include when and how OCD was recognized as a mental disorder and how OCD affects the neurological and physical capabilities of patients who are diagnosed with the disorder. The writer points out that while OCD can interfere with normal functioning and make life extremely difficult for the patient, there is no cure for the disorder, but treatment does result in control of symptoms.
From the Paper "All people need routine, rituals and habits in order to organize their daily lives. For example, organization and arrangement of belongings and supplies is essential both at home and at work. People who have obsessive-compulsive disorder, however, are often so concerned with order and ritual that these activities require a great deal of time and become a real problem in their daily lives. Basically, obsessive-compulsive disorder is disorder that "causes a person's thoughts to repeat. These repeating thoughts, called obsessions, lead a person with OCD to perform certain tasks over and over in an effort to make the obsessions go away"."
Abstract This report provides evidence-based arguments as to whether internet gambling should be banned in Australia. The paper lists the features of three on-line gambling sites and rates them in terms of minimising harm from excessive gambling. The paper then concludes that despite the recent surgence in the number of Internet gambling sites, the Australian government should work to put a stop to it, or at least restrict the ways in which gambling sites become active.
From the Paper "Internet gambling is a form of interactive gambling through a communication channel such as computer terminal, television or telephone (Productivity Commission's Inquiry Report 2001). Although the use of Internet gambling has increased dramatically over the past few years, there are many disadvantages associated with it. The general benefits and drawbacks of Internet gambling are evaluated below."
Abstract This paper discusses the issue of gambling related crime and solutions to the problem. The paper discusses historical evidence that society has never been directly involved in ending the issue, and that over time gambling has become more apparent in society, and with it, so has gambling related crime.
From the Paper "Throughout history gambling has been an inclusion in society that has elicited concern from many, and indifference from others. Politicians have traditionally conceded the fact that gambling as a public recreation has caused some difficulties in the masses. They have even discussed the fact that they believe that gambling might be acceptable - as long as only those that possess the wealth to support their bets practice gambling. As casinos have now been constructed in many States in America, those closest to these gambling institutions address the issue of gambling related crime almost daily. However, politicians, and government officials contend that there is not enough evidence to support programs that are State, or Federally funded which would reduce, or stop gambling related crime, or provide solutions to those who wish to escape their addictions."
Abstract This considers some of the legal and moral issues of internet gampling. The paper takes a look at whether people have the right to gamble online and whether the government should step in and prohibit gambling on the Internet. The author also examines the moral and ethical concerns of Internet gambling.
From the Paper "Gambling on the Internet seems to be taking a life of its own. Last year, Internet Gambling alone brought in approximately $600 million. This number is expected to rise to about $955 million for 2001. By the year 2003, over $10 billion will have been gambled online. Internet gambling is a reality. An adult sits at his personal computer, accesses the Internet and engages in an on-line activity that hurts nobody. But the government disapproves of what he is doing and wants to charge him with a crime that carries a fine and a prison sentence. This is the scenario in the U.S. today."
Abstract This paper deals with a proposed memorandum drafted to the CEO of Procter and Gamble relating the state of the company and what is deemed necessary to sustain Procter and Gamble's place within the market. The writer points out that the document is written as if it were solicited by Procter and Gamble's CEO for review and marketing purposes. The conclusion of this article is that Procter and Gamble's market share is very sustainable.
From the Paper "Procter and Gamble touches the lives of billions of people throughout the world each day. Since the company's founding in 1837, Procter and Gamble has been committed to providing products of superior quality at a reasonable price so as to improve the respective lives of its consumers. The continuity of service from Proctor and Gamble to the public is such that it is evident that the company has been malleable throughout its history so as to withstand both changes in the marketplace and changes in consumer needs. That said, as Procter and Gamble nears its one hundred seventieth year of service, the need to change and willingness to change at the very top level of the organization must continue to exist."
Abstract In this essay, the writer discusses the policy of the BC Government regarding gambling. The writer notes that in some countries gambling is not permitted and that the BC Government has however allowed the gambling pursuit. In this paper the writer examines the policies of the current liberal BC Government and discusses that gambling practices have in fact expanded, in spite of government promises to the contrary.
From the Paper "Many people object to gambling on the basis that it is immoral, or that it encourages people to develop problem gambling behaviors. Due to this fact, some governments permit gambling and some do not. The BC Government does permit it, but under regulated conditions. The current Liberal BC Government promised not to allow gambling to expand, but as one can see from an examination of its policies, it has allowed gambling to expand, contrary to its promises. The current Liberal BC government campaigned on the issue of gambling, vowing to stop it from expanding further."
Abstract This paper examines Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in adults and children. The paper begins with a discussion of the etiology and prevalence of the disease. Next the paper reviews co-morbid diseases. The paper then focuses on the symptoms and treatment of OCD, with special emphasis on the role of the nurse as therapist and educator.
Abstract This paper studies obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) in children. The paper begins by discussing the lack of a precise known cause of OCD. Next the paper looks at treatment of a psychiatric condition that may be both neurobiological and psychological. The paper also examines the debilitating impact of this anxiety disorder and some solutions.
From the Paper "Obsessive-compulsive disorder OCD is a complicated and still puzzling psychiatric disorder that has been called one of the most debilitating of the anxiety disorders. Recent studies suggest that approximately..."
Abstract This paper provides an analysis of the obsessive-compulsive disorder and cognitive behavior displayed by the main character Melvin Udall (played by Jack Nicholson) in the movie 'As Good As It Gets.' The paper includes quotations from the movie and actual examples of the behavior displayed by Melvin that constitute OCD.
From the Paper "The character Melvin Udall (played by Jack Nicholson) in the movie As Good As It Gets displays symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and cognitive distortions. Melvin is a writer whose meticulous, routine-drenched yet quirky world suddenly turns upside down when his gay neighbor, Simon Bishop (played by Greg Kinnear), gets beaten up and has to go to the hospital, leaving his pet dog, Verdell, in Melvin's care. What further complicates Melvin's life is that the only waitress in his favorite cafe who can put up with him, Carolll Connelly (played by Helen Hunt), has to quit work to take care of her sick son."