Gambling is an activity that involves risking money, betting with friends, or wagering on a chance event. It can be used for a variety of reasons, including a social or intellectual challenge, to relieve stress, or to unwind. However, it can also become an obsession.
Problem gambling impacts may be on an individual, interpersonal, or societal level. For example, someone who is addicted to gambling has problems with work, relationships, and financial disaster. They might steal money or get into huge debt. These problems can affect other family members, too.
Many studies have examined the economic costs of gambling. These costs include employment benefits, labor impacts, and reduced performance. But they often do not include the costs of problem gambling.
Studies have also investigated the social impact of gambling. Some studies have shown an increase in social deprivation and social disorganization, and a decrease in social capital. Others have found a decrease in mental health and quality of life.
Research has also found that gambling may be a risk factor for homelessness. Eighty-two percent of problem gamblers reported that gambling preceded their homelessness.
The majority of studies have focused on economic and social impacts of gambling. These impacts can be positive or negative.
One of the main issues in gambling impact analysis is how to measure social impacts. Using disability weights to measure intangible social costs has been useful for this purpose. Similarly, an economic cost-benefit analysis has been used to determine the positive and negative impacts of gambling on common units.