Difference between revisions of "Emotional gambling"
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(Let's not overstate the case - try this.) |
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| − | '''Emotional gambling''' is investing one's emotions in the uncertain outcome of an | + | '''Emotional gambling''' is investing one's emotions in the uncertain outcome of an event, such as a sports contest or a political race. It is perhaps best understood in terms of "staking" one's normal level of contentment upon a desired outcome, in the hope of "winning" a suitably rewarding surge of euphoria. Unlike actual [[gambling]], however, any "losses" are simply recouped as one's balance of mood recovers after the disappointment. |
| − | + | Strong emotional gambling - usually where the significance of the desired outcome has been ridiculously exaggerated - can cause a temporary loss of self-control in some people. Post-game disorder, for example, is well documented within the history of many sports. | |
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[[Category:Psychology]] | [[Category:Psychology]] | ||
Revision as of 21:38, September 3, 2008
Emotional gambling is investing one's emotions in the uncertain outcome of an event, such as a sports contest or a political race. It is perhaps best understood in terms of "staking" one's normal level of contentment upon a desired outcome, in the hope of "winning" a suitably rewarding surge of euphoria. Unlike actual gambling, however, any "losses" are simply recouped as one's balance of mood recovers after the disappointment.
Strong emotional gambling - usually where the significance of the desired outcome has been ridiculously exaggerated - can cause a temporary loss of self-control in some people. Post-game disorder, for example, is well documented within the history of many sports.