Gambling involves risking something of value in the hope of getting something of greater value. For the vast majority of people, this is a harmless pastime that provides pleasure. Compulsive gambling can, however, cause harm, including mental health problems and relationship difficulties. Many people who struggle with a problem with gambling will lie, steal and even commit a crime to support their addiction. For some, the gambler’s family may suffer too – petty theft from family members is common, and in extreme cases pathological gambling has been linked to domestic violence.
The causes of gambling harm are complex. The heightened availability of gambling products is a key factor, as is their aggressive promotion in social media and sponsorship of sports leagues. These activities are also often disproportionately located in areas of disadvantage. Research has also shown that certain individuals are more likely to develop gambling problems, for example if they have an underactive brain reward system. Culture can also influence values around gambling activity, and this can make it difficult for someone to recognize a problem.
While most studies of gambling have focused on its negative financial and labor impacts, the literature also demonstrates positive aspects. These can be categorized into personal, interpersonal and community/society levels. Personal impacts affect gamblers’ own well-being; the external, interpersonal levels involve other people and can have long-term effects; and the societal/community level involves money that could be spent on beneficial things like public services and environmental protection.