According to the California Council on Problem Gambling (CCPG), there are four different types of problem gamblers. These include the Action Problem Gambler, the Escape Problem Gambler, the Internet Problem Gambler, and the Stock Market Problem Gambler.

Action Problem Gambler

The CCPG considers Action Problem Gamblers competitive, dominating, controlling, manipulative and egotistical. These gamblers act sociable and friendly but suffer from low self esteem. Action Problem Gamblers typically started gambling at a young age by playing friendly card games or betting on sports. These gamblers play games that require skill such as poker or betting on sports. They believe that they can develop a system to beat others or the casino. Later, they begin gambling for the escapist and self-medicating effects.

Escape Problem Gambler

Unlike Action Problem Gamblers, Escape Problem Gamblers play games that require relatively little skill. They tend to play slot machines, video poker, and other similar games. The Escape Problem Gambler becomes lost in gambling. Their personalities tend to be the opposite of Action Problem Gamblers in that they are not as sociable or extroverted. These gamblers start to play for leisure but may quickly step over the line into escape problem gambling. The CCPG claims that there is no exact “winning phase” for these gamblers, who may never experience a large win. They quickly dive from phase two to phase three.

Internet Problem Gambler

The CCPG also acknowledges the Internet Problem Gambler. The internet allows gamblers to seek their thrills nonstop. This can be especially harmful and isolating because internet activities are more capable of being hidden from family and friends.

The Stock Market Problem Gambler

The fourth and final type of problem gambler is the Stock Market Problem Gambler. The CCPG defines a Stock Market Problem Gambler as a person who impulsively day trades and “plays” the market, resulting in negative financial and emotional consequences to the gambler and his or her family.