Psychiatric Epidemiology, Nosology, and Treatment: Considering Internet Gambling

In this article, we consider behavioral addiction by examining the psychiatric aspects of disordered gambling. In particular, we illustrate these considerations with examples based on the growing evidence base associated with Internet-based gambling. We begin our review by focusing on gambling, the epidemiology of gambling disorders, and the place of gambling disorders within the psychiatric nosology. We include a critical discussion about the games that people play and whether certain games are associated with higher rates of gambling disorder. This discussion also includes an evidence-based consideration of the relationship between gambling exposure and adaptation to this experience. We conclude our review by discussing several issues associated with the shift from DSM-IV to DSM-5 diagnostic criteria as well as the treatment of gambling disorder. Throughout this review, we use the Syndrome Model of Addiction as an overarching guide. [ Psychiatr Ann . 2014; 44(8):371–378.]