There are numerous external effects of gambling, and not just on the person who is involved. The effects of gambling affect individuals, families, communities, and even generations. These impacts range from personal to community, and they are hard to measure. The costs and benefits of gambling have been measured on multiple levels, but the social costs are rarely considered. This lack of understanding has hampered the development of studies of gambling’s effects. However, there are several key methodological challenges to be considered before evaluating the effects of gambling.
One of the most significant factors in determining the motivation for gambling is social interaction. Many gambling venues offer a social environment for people to meet and socialise. While some consumers are motivated by the desire to win money, others may gamble to escape their problems. These people are known as problem gamblers. It is important to identify these factors and try to change the behavior to avoid negative consequences. Luckily, there are many resources available to help those affected by gambling.
The effects of gambling have a positive impact on local economies. According to the journal Growth Chang, riverboat gambling has been shown to reduce state lottery revenue. Additionally, many states have legalized gambling. While these studies are conflicting, the overall effect of gambling is positive. In addition, a casino’s revenues may contribute to the social services provided by a community. However, new forms of gambling could potentially impact public services and negatively impact charitable activities.