Gambling is an activity that involves risk taking in the hope of a gain. It can take many forms including placing a bet on a football match or scratchcard, or by using a credit card or loan. People gamble for a variety of reasons; the adrenaline rush, socialising with friends, or as an escape from worries and stress. But for some people, gambling can become a problem. They can be at risk of harming themselves and others, such as suicide or self-harm. They may also be stealing money, or borrowing from loved ones or businesses. Eventually, debts can build up to a point that it becomes impossible to repay them and this can lead to homelessness and bankruptcy.
Studies of gambling have tended to concentrate on the negative effects rather than the positives, but it is important that all aspects are considered. When looking at economic impacts, there is a tendency to do before-and-after comparisons and to attribute any change to the introduction of gambling, but this can be misleading. For example, a rise in per capita incomes might be attributed to the introduction of gambling, but this could also be due to general economic growth.
Studies that include a public health approach can help to identify the positive and negative social impacts of gambling. In particular, the use of health-related quality of life weights – known as disability weights – can be used to measure intangible social costs and benefits.