Gambling is a popular activity for many people. For some, it is a form of entertainment or a way to socialize with friends. However, for others, gambling can become a serious problem that affects their health, relationships, and daily life.

Is gambling addiction genetic in nature? Research from twin and family studies shows that between 40% and 60% of a person’s risk for developing gambling addiction comes from genetic factors. This means people with close biological relatives who have gambling problems face a higher risk of this addition compared to those without a family history.

But just like addiction to alcohol or cocaine, genetics is only part of the story. Personal experiences, stress, trauma, early exposure to gambling, and access to gambling opportunities all play important roles. No single gene or family background determines whether someone will develop gambling disorder.

Understanding these factors is important for anyone who is worried about their own gambling or concerned about a loved one. Granite Mountain Behavioral Healthcare specializes in treating addiction and providing support.

What is Gambling Addiction?

Gambling addiction, also called gambling disorder, is a diagnosable mental health condition. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) defines gambling disorder as repeated problem gambling behavior that leads to significant distress or problems in a person’s life.

This disorder is different from occasional or recreational gambling. Most people who gamble do not develop an addiction. Gambling addiction involves a loss of control over gambling behavior, even when it causes serious problems.

The condition affects about 1% of adults in the United States. Rates may be higher among teenagers and young adults, with some studies showing 2-7% of youths develop gambling problems.

Key signs of gambling addiction include:

• Preoccupation: Constant thoughts about gambling, planning the next gambling session, or thinking about ways to get money for gambling
• Tolerance: Needing to gamble with increasing amounts of money to feel excitement
• Withdrawal: Feeling restless, irritable, or uncomfortable when trying to reduce or stop gambling
• Loss of control: Unsuccessful attempts to cut down or stop gambling, and continuing to gamble despite serious consequences

How Family History Can Influences Gambling Behavior

Family history plays a significant role in gambling behavior. Studies show people with a first-degree relative (a parent, sibling, or child) with gambling disorder are much more likely to develop similar problems. Research from the University of Iowa found first-degree relatives are about eight times more likely to experience gambling disorder during their lifetime compared to relatives of people without gambling problems.

About 11% of first-degree relatives of someone with gambling disorder also have the disorder, compared to about 1% of relatives in families without gambling history. Genetics may increase vulnerability to gambling addiction, while family habits, attitudes, and experiences also influence behavior.

Signs that family history may influence gambling behavior include:

• Multiple affected family members: More than one person in the family has struggled with gambling problems
• Early onset: The person started to gamble or developed problematic behaviors at a younger age than typical
• Co-occurring conditions: Other family members have clinical depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, or personality disorders that are linked to gambling disorders.

Environmental Factors That Can Trigger Genetic Predispositions

Someone may have a genetic tendency toward gambling addiction, but environmental factors can increase or decrease the likelihood this tendency will lead to problems. Certain experiences or surroundings make them more likely to develop gambling problems, which combines with their genetic disposition to raise their likelihood even more.

Environmental triggers may include:

• Early exposure to gambling: Introduction to gambling at a young age increases risk of developing gambling disorder later in life.
• Trauma and adverse experiences: Abuse, neglect, or significant loss can make individuals more vulnerable to addiction by affecting how the brain processes stress and reward.
• Stress and life transitions: Job loss, divorce, or major life changes can trigger gambling as a coping mechanism in those with genetic susceptibility.
• Accessibility to gambling: Living where gambling is easily accessible increases the chance that someone with genetic predisposition will develop problems.