The Psychology of Blackjack

Blackjack is one of the few online casino games where the outcome can be influenced by strategic game play and while this is a huge advantage it does open the door to a variety of emotions and psychological factors that can affect the outcome. While few people realise or acknowledge it, the psychology of blackjack can make or break your game.

This means that even if you play according to basic blackjack strategy if you become overly excited or easily frustrated you will make uncalculated errors that can result in losses. One of the most fundamental starting points in Blackjack Psychology is to learn to cope with the variety of emotions that emerge during a game. These often arise when you play with people that are new to the game and make regular mistakes. These mistakes may not only cost you the game but can also be extremely frustrating and make you angry. It is however important to remember that not all blackjack players play according to basic strategy guides and as such, you have to view their mistakes as part of the game and accept that for what it is.

Playing blackjack successfully also requires that you eliminate any doubts or fears that you have about busting by going over 21. Playing with fear means that you will second guess proven blackjack strategy which will leave you open to making counter intuitive plays and not choosing to hit when you should.

That said though, you should not play with reckless abandon either. While the game is exciting and you can caught up in the moments of it, it is important to control your emotions and remember to always stick to basic strategy for all elements of play (hitting, standing, splitting etc.). If you are on a winning streak do no deviate from strategy as you will end up losing, rather stick to proven game play and walk away with the rewards.

It is also important to keep in mind that even when you are getting dealt bad cards, no hands are connected and your luck will eventually change. If you lose, do not fall into the trap of doubling up because you feel that you are due for a win. Blackjack doesn't work that way and there is no use throwing good money after bad. Rather take the loss and stop playing for the moment and you can always try again another day.

At the end of the day, blackjack is a mental game and your success will depend on how well you are able to control yourself and your mental state while playing. Learning to play calmly under pressure will not only improve your game but also increase the enjoyment of it.