What is the difference between compulsive gambling and pathological gambling?

[Julio88]

Compulsive gambling and pathological gambling are both terms used to describe a gambling disorder or addiction. While the terms are often used interchangeably, there are some differences between them.

Compulsive gambling typically refers to a milder form of gambling addiction, in which a person has a strong urge to gamble and may have difficulty controlling their behavior, but they may still be able to resist the urge to gamble in certain situations. With compulsive gambling, there may be negative consequences associated with the behavior, but they may not be as severe as with pathological gambling.

Pathological gambling, on the other hand, is a more severe form of gambling addiction. With pathological gambling, the person has a persistent and compulsive desire to gamble, even when doing so causes significant harm to themselves or others. Pathological gamblers may continue to gamble despite severe financial, legal, or social consequences, and it can be difficult for them to stop or even cut back on their gambling behavior.

In summary, while both compulsive gambling and pathological gambling involve a loss of control over gambling behavior, compulsive gambling is typically milder and more easily controlled, while pathological gambling is a more severe addiction that can have serious and lasting consequences.

 

[Hasan77]

Some individuals may use the term "compulsive gambling" to emphasize the irresistible nature of the behavior, while others may prefer "gambling disorder" to align with the current diagnostic criteria. Ultimately, it's important to recognize that the problem lies in the excessive and problematic nature of the gambling behavior itself, regardless of the specific terminology used.

 

[Crazy_winner]

Pathological gambling is linked to more powerful wants to gamble, a higher tolerance for the practice, and more negative impacts on the person's life than compulsive gambling, which is frequently characterized by less severe outcomes and less intense urges to gamble. Compulsive gambling is not considered an addiction illness, although pathological gambling is.