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Study Shows Problem Gamblers Seek Tension Relief
NEW ZEALAND --
A New Zealand psychologist has found that problem gambling may stem from a need to release tension, rather than a compulsion to win money. Dr. Dave Clarke studied 150 students and saw that 17% of the group fit the description of problem gamblers, a result much higher than normal for that age group.
Clarke then examined the common qualities among the addictive gamblers, and saw that most reported depression and anxiety. Gambling became an escape from pressure and tension involved in everyday life.
The desire for money was not nearly as important a goal as relieving stress, through excitement and distraction.
The gamblers were unsure of their own goals when gambling, but indicated that gaming gave them a sense of importance, in that they felt gambling made them at least momentarily significant.
Clarke said that the temporary pleasure brought about by gambling for these reasons would only continue a cycle of behavior, as the original cause for the impulses remained unaddressed.
This study would indicate problem gambling is more likely a symptom of underlying dysfunction, rather than a cause. Preventing people in these circumstances from gambling would only cause the deeper problems to surface in other manners, perhaps as another form of addiction.
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