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pathological gambling

in DSM–IV–TR, an impulse-control disorder characterized by chronic, maladaptive wagering, leading to significant interpersonal, professional, or financial difficulties. DSM–5 characterizes this behavioral pathology as a nonsubstance-related addiction and refers to it as gambling disorder. Also called compulsive gambling.

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Psychology term of the day

November 22nd 2024

aggressive character

aggressive character

a personality characterized by a hostile or competitive attitude to others and the pursuit of power, prestige, and material possessions. Karen D. Horney defined the development of such a character as one of three basic neurotic trends used as a defense against basic anxiety. Compare compliant character; detached character.