Psychological reasons for the desire for excitement
Introduction
Excitement is a combination of attraction to risk, expectation of reward and social incentives. Understanding the psychological reasons for the desire for excitement helps to realize your motivations, recognize alarm signals and choose strategies for abandoning the game.
1. Neurobiological basis: reward system
Dopamine and waiting to win
At the sight of a game symbol or a sound of spin, dopamine is released in the brain. He is responsible not so much for the win itself as for waiting for it.
Variable remuneration
Irregular, unpredictable wins (slots, "crash" games) activate the dopamine system more than fixed rewards. This is comparable to the classic "accidental reinforcement" effect in behaviorism.
2. Cognitive biases
1. Illusion of control
Belief that you can influence random events (choosing a "good" moment or click speed).
2. Misperception of probabilities
Exaggerating the chance of winning ("every tenth-once") and underestimating the chances of losing.
3. Selective memory
You remember big wins and forget numerous small losses, which reinforces the desire to play again.
3. Social and cultural factors
Role model and social norms
Advertising, streamers and friends create an environment where the game seems like a common leisure activity.
Need for social connection
Joint sports betting or discussion with comrades give a sense of belonging.
Status and recognition
The "smart" player who predicted the result receives praise; it enhances motivation.
4. Emotional regulation
1. Avoidance of discomfort
Excitement is perceived as a way to relieve stress, distract from problems and experience a surge of emotions.
2. Thrill-seeking
People with a higher need for stimulation (high sensation seekers) more often turn to risk for the sake of emotional uplift.
3. Compensation for negative states
Depression, anxiety and boredom increase cravings for the game as a form of "healing" arousal.
5. Personality and genetic factors
Traits
Impulsiveness, low level of self-control, high risk tolerance.
Self-assessment and need for achievement
Players with low satisfaction from real success are looking for "quick victories" in a virtual environment.
Genetic predisposition
Twin studies point to an inherited component of addiction and addictive behavior.
6. Interaction of factors and development of dependence
Risk escalation
First, the game as entertainment, then the increase in bets and frequency, attempts to "recoup" when losing.
Vicious circle of reinforcements
Victories reinforce the game, losses strengthen the desire to return the lost, which leads to increased cognitive distortion.
Conclusion
The desire for excitement is generated by a complex interweaving of neurobiological, cognitive, social, emotional and personal factors. Awareness of these mechanisms is the first step towards controlling your own behavior and building an effective plan to abandon the game.
