Debate whether… has an addiction

• Point 1: salience

  Michael’s behaviour demonstrates several key characteristics of addiction, suggesting that he does indeed suffer from a gambling addiction. One major characteristic is salience, meaning the addictive behaviour dominates his thoughts, emotions, and actions. The case study states that gambling has become "the only thing that Michael can think about" and that he even becomes distracted at work, showing that his gambling preoccupies his mind.
• Point 2: mood modification

  Additionally, mood modification is evident, as each win provides him with a ‘high’, reinforcing his behaviour. This aligns with Griffiths’ (2005) theory that addictive behaviours often serve as a way to regulate mood, further supporting the idea that Michael is addicted.
• Point 3: bad habit

  However, some may argue that Michael’s behaviour is not necessarily an addiction but rather a bad habit or poor financial control. While he has lost significant amounts of money, some individuals gamble irresponsibly without being clinically addicted.
• Point 4: withdrawal symptoms

  That being said, Michael also exhibits withdrawal symptoms, as he becomes short-tempered when prevented from gambling, suggesting psychological dependence.
• Point 5: tolerance

  He also experiences tolerance, as his spending increased from small bets to losing up to £200 per day, showing he needs to gamble more for the same level of satisfaction.
• Point 5: relapse

  Furthermore, relapse is evident, as he temporarily stops gambling but always returns, indicating an inability to quit.
• Conc

  Given that he meets multiple addiction criteria, it is likely that Michael does suffer from a gambling addiction rather than simply making poor financial choices.