Most compulsive behaviours are treated in a similar manner, as drug and alcohol addiction are both considered issues that are deep-rooted in psychological issues. Problem gambling has escaped this classification for years. However, that will all change on May 5th, when the American Psychiatric Association adds internet use to its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5).

When it comes to diagnosing mental health disorders, the DSM is an essential tool of psychiatrists. Since this is the first time that online addictions will be acknowledged in the document, it allows those suffering to be taken seriously not only by their friends and family but also the medical world. Dr. Daniel King of Adelaide University’s School of Psychology states that 3% of online gamers are addicted or demonstrate compulsive behaviour.

Those individuals who do exhibit this type of behaviour often have underlying psychological issues, and they tend to belong to certain demographics. "Factors like being male, single, being socially isolated, having attention difficulties, social anxiety, disengagement from school and other activities and poor family relationships seem to be associated with problem gaming,"

Dr. King states. Problem gambling in the online world is likely to fall into this categorization, especially since social casino games are now available. While these – and other – types of online games do not cause players to lose money, the compulsive behaviour is detrimental in other ways.

Those who are addicted to online casino games, MMORPGs and flash games experience isolation from their peers, relationship issues and tend to neglect their professional responsibilities. Currently, it is difficult to tell whether or not an individual suffers from online addiction or gaming addiction – but there are some warning signs.

If you find that you experience withdrawal symptoms whenever you are away from the computer or if gaming creates conflicts in other aspects of your life, you may be exhibiting compulsive behaviour. With the classification of online addiction in the DSM, it will be easier for medical professionals to diagnose this issue.

About the Author

George Anderson
Author George, has over 25+ years’ experience in the Pokies and Casinos industry throughout Australia and New Zealand. Loves to research new Pokies games on the block and follows announcements from top industry providers about their upcoming releases. As soon as a new interesting pokie game appears on his radar, George is there to check it out and give you the scoop before anyone else and tell you about all casino sites where can play the latest game. Before this gig, George worked as Pokie game tester, making him an ideal candidate for this genre of work. He is also an animal lover and a proud owner of three dogs.