Whether it is legal or illegal, gambling is one of the most popular leisure activities in most countries. In the United States, legal gambling revenues are estimated to reach $13.6 billion in the second quarter of 2021.
The impact of gambling can be positive or negative. It depends on several factors, including the availability of gambling, its source, and the gambling policies implemented. It can affect both the gambler and other people in the community.
The economic cost-benefit analysis is a method of assessing the social benefits and harms associated with gambling. It measures changes in well-being in common units and assigns value to intangible costs and benefits.
Gambling’s financial impacts include the revenues it generates, as well as the costs it incurs. They can include changes in productivity, unemployment, tourism, and infrastructure. They also can include long-term and short-term costs.
On a personal level, gambling can have a negative effect on the gambler’s health and finances. Some individuals use gambling as a way to get away from their problems. Others are motivated by the dream of winning money.
On a society/community level, the negative impacts of gambling can include violence, petty theft, and illicit lending. It can also have a negative effect on public services.
Gambling also has a negative effect on significant others. The gambler’s significant other often experiences loneliness, self-blame, and isolation. They may not have the resources to support their partner’s activities.
A number of studies have investigated the social impacts of gambling. Most have focused on the impacts of gambling on the individual. However, some have surveyed the effects on communities.