Gambling is the act of placing a value on something, such as a football match or scratchcard, with an uncertain outcome. This value is based on the odds set, which are the probability that the event will occur. Some people gamble responsibly and enjoy it as an entertaining diversion, but others overindulge and end up incurring debts that impair their ability to support themselves or their families.<\/p>\n
In recent years, understanding of gambling and problem gamblers has evolved substantially. We now consider it to be a psychological disorder similar to alcoholism. Consequently, there is a greater focus on identifying the psychological factors that lead to this behaviour and developing effective interventions.<\/p>\n
The majority of gambling occurs in casinos and racetracks, but it can also take place at gas stations, bookmakers, church halls and sporting events. It also takes place online, on the television and in many advertising campaigns. Gambling is a highly marketed activity, with a range of promotional tactics designed to lure customers including VIP schemes and special offers.<\/p>\n
A number of social impacts of gambling have been reported, but the personal\/interpersonal and community\/society level effects are difficult to measure and therefore less well understood. In addition, these effects have often been excluded from calculations because they are not monetary in nature. This article explores these aspects and proposes a framework for conducting gambling impact studies from a public health perspective. This will allow the inclusion of a wider range of costs and benefits, including those that are invisible to the individual.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Gambling is the act of placing a value on something, such as a football match or scratchcard, with an uncertain outcome. This value is based on the odds set, which are the probability that the event will occur. Some people gamble responsibly and enjoy it as an entertaining diversion, but others overindulge and end up … <\/p>\n