This is a summary of the Biological Factors section of GREO's Conceptual Framework of Harmful Gambling. This factor explains what is known in research regarding biological influences on gambling. It focuses on genetics and biological differences in brain structure and functioning.
Biology may explain why some people are more vulnerable to developing gambling problems than others. Gambling has a genetic, heritable component, although it is also shaped by environmental factors. There is evidence that people with gambling problems have altered brain structure and functioning as compared to people without gambling problems. It is less clear if the differences in neurobiology make people more vulnerable to harmful gambling or if they occur as a consequence of harmful gambling. This factor discusses what is known in gambling research regarding genetics and neurobiology. It also outlines the limitations of current research.
This document is also available in French, Spanish, and Mandarin. Links are provided below for the translations and for the full version of the Framework.
