Originally Posted by Alan Mendelson View Post
Well, Arc, now we have a new discussion based on Rob's post: what constitutes addiction? I will admit to one thing: I've been playing video poker longer than any of my marriages lasted.
From what I've read the issue is not one of addiction in any case. That's why the term "gambling problem" is used. Only when gambling lead to specific problems is there a cause for concern.

In fact, it is well recognized that many people are addicted to their jobs. The net result is usually these people advance higher and make more money since they put in extra time working. This may lead to problems at home but I've not read much about this being an issue that is of any concern to the medical community. So, addiction in and of itself is never really the issue.

The question is does gambling lead to problems in your life, if it does, then it should be avoided. If not, then it's not really important.