Gambling is betting something of value on an activity primarily based on chance with the hope of winning something else of value. It has been a part of human societies since prerecorded history and is still present in many traditions, customs, rites and rituals today. It has both negative and positive effects on individuals and society/community. Some of these are visible, and others remain hidden.
It can affect any age group but is more prevalent among young people and men; as much as 5% of those who gamble develop a gambling disorder. Vulnerability increases with lower incomes, as more money is lost than gained in each gamble; and the risk of developing a problem rises with the frequency of gambling and with the amount spent on gambling. People who spend more time playing video and mobile games may also be at greater risk.
A common view is that gambling is a form of entertainment, and while it is true that most gamblers have fun while doing so, this does not mean that gambling makes them happy. In fact, most people can live without gambling and still be happy.
While more than a billion people gamble worldwide each year, there are many religious communities that ban gambling. These groups believe that gambling is sinful, even though the Bible does not explicitly state that it is. It is also important to note that some people cannot stop gambling, despite their efforts. This is referred to as compulsive gambling or pathological gambling.