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Online Gambling Addiction
Online Gambling Addiction 2
ABSTRACT
Gambling, specifically, Online Gambling is recognized as a public issue because it impels
individuals down the downward spiral of addiction, financial crisis, broken relationships, anger,
and in extreme cases, law-breaking1. Hence, it is essential to use a number of lenses to
understand why it happens, for there is no single source of knowledge that can explain the full
spectrum of Gambling in a virtual setting. This paper seeks to Compare and Contrast how
subjects from the Natural and the Applied Sciences would best contextualize Online Gambling
Addiction. Specifically, the basis for comparison between the Natural Sciences and Applied
Science would be the standalone way in which each frames the phenomenon of Online Gambling
Addiction. Such difference deems worthy and interesting exploration. The basis for contrast, on
the other hand, would be the unifying framework of Psychology2. Through the exercise, the
researcher aims to establish the thesis that different disciplines will always have a common point
of unity which can be used to resolve a timely social issue such as Online Gaming Addiction.
INTRODUCTION
Online Gambling Addiction in the Natural Sciences
Online Gambling Addiction is a phenomenon that can be understood further within the
field of the Natural Sciences. Two areas from which this can be contextualized would be
Computer Science and Biology. In terms of Computer Science, Online Gambling Addiction is an
ancillary topic which falls under Game Development. People who gamble in virtual card games,
virtual slot machines, and virtual horse racing primarily view these pastimes as potent forms of
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Online Gambling Addiction 3
diversion and entertainment. These individuals get hooked because of the role-playing
opportunities, virtual reality, interface design, and rewards that attract them to become more and
more engaged in the type of game3. In terms of Biology, Online Gambling Addiction may be
understood in terms of bodily physiology. According to a study by Paris et al (2010), hormones
secreted by glands from the Endocrine System such as dopamine and cortisol are correlated to
addiction. Increased chemical secretion of dopamine, otherwise known as the happy hormone,
triggers feelings of gratification and reward in individuals diagnosed to be suffering from online
gambling addiction. Cortisol, on the other hand, creates the silver lining of obsession and
captivation to one’s chosen form of online gambling pastime.
Online Gambling Addiction in the Applied Sciences
Online Gambling Addiction can also be contextualized under the field of Applied
Sciences, particularly, within the scope of Counseling. Based on the fifth edition of the
