Gambling involves betting something of value on an event that is determined by chance and is designed to win something else of value. The event could be anything, such as a sports game, a lottery, or even a casino game. While most people associate gambling with slot machines and casinos, it is important to remember that almost any bet can be considered a form of gambling. This includes playing bingo, buying lottery tickets, and participating in office pools. While some people consider these activities to be harmless fun, others find that they are highly addictive and dangerous. Some even claim that gambling is a mental disorder, which is recognized by mental health professionals as a serious problem. Symptoms of gambling addiction include hiding the habit, lying about the amount of money spent, avoiding friends and family, and impulsively increasing bet sizes in the hope of winning back lost money. A person with a gambling addiction may also show signs of depression, anxiety, or other emotional problems. If you suspect that someone you know has a gambling problem, it is vital to seek help and support from loved ones and professional treatment providers.
The most difficult aspect of evaluating the social costs and benefits associated with gambling is the intangible or “soft” cost/benefit effects, which are hard to measure or quantify in dollar terms. These intangible effects have been traditionally omitted from gambling-related economic impact studies, and are a major shortcoming of the current state of research.
One methodological problem that is particularly problematic is the tendency of some studies to rely solely on before-and-after comparisons and attribute any change in income or expenditures to the introduction of gambling. This approach is not only simplistic, but is potentially misleading. For example, if per capita income increases after the introduction of gambling, it is not necessarily due to the gambling establishment; it may be a result of general economic growth in that area.
A second methodological issue is the failure to examine all forms of gambling and to recognize that gambling can have both positive and negative impacts. While it is common to focus on only pathological gambling and its harms, it is equally important to consider nonproblematic forms of gambling, which can provide useful entertainment and raise money for charities and community groups.
It is important for family members of a gambler to be aware of the positive social aspects of gambling, and to encourage their involvement in these activities. This can also be a powerful tool in helping the gambler to control his or her spending habits. Likewise, it is essential to develop strong financial boundaries and to protect the family’s credit and finances. It is also helpful to join a support group, such as Gamblers Anonymous, which follows the model of Alcoholics Anonymous and provides a safe environment for individuals struggling with gambling addictions.