Abstract
Psychopathology, personality variables, and vulnerability to pathological gambling. Pathological gambling is recognized as a mental disorder with explicit diagnostic signs and symptoms. It is a condition widely prevalent and one likely to increase in incidence in the future. The literature is reviewed as to diagnostic signs and symptoms, sub-varieties, epidemiology, and psychometric analysis, as well as personality traits. It is argued that pathological gamblers are not necessarily sensation seekers but that avoidance or reducción of noxious physiological states or dysphoric mood, in conjunction with a behaviour completion mechanism, is a major factor in explaining persistence in gambling. Erroneous perceptions about gambling may play an important role in the development and maintenance of gambling behaviors. Specific recommendations for future research are offered.
