The social acceptability of gambling impacts can be classified according to the cost and benefits it brings to society. Depending on the context, impacts can be positive or negative. The costs and benefits of gambling can be measured in labor and health costs, as well as in the individual’s psychological health and well-being. External gambling impacts are more broad and include society or community development. Gambling impacts can be short-term or long-term. Below we will discuss some of the main impacts of gambling.
Social acceptability
The social acceptability of gambling is increasing. As gambling becomes increasingly accessible, more women are gambling and developing problem gambling behaviors. This shift is also reflected in the increased prevalence of research into gambling and the role of women in this area. Women are more likely to seek treatment for gambling problems and other addictions than men, but this doesn’t necessarily mean that they are more likely to engage in problematic gambling. The social acceptability of gambling may also be a contributing factor to this growth.
Gambling is generally viewed as an activity for adults, but it has become socially acceptable and even sanctioned by government authorities. Many television shows and movies show glamorous aspects of gambling. In televised world championship poker tournaments, young people win millions of dollars. And in recent World Series of Poker tournaments, the winners are usually in their twenties. It’s not surprising that gambling is becoming more accepted among young people.
Costs
Researchers have calculated the costs of gambling to employers, including time spent on extended breaks, time spent on the phone, or online, and time lost due to workplace emergencies. The indirect cost focuses on lost work that could have been done if workers were not having gambling problems. The Swelogs survey of employed individuals includes information on whether they gamble during work hours, but does not report the amount of time lost in each instance. One study estimated that an average gambler costs an employer nearly $1,300 per month in lost labor time. These estimates did not include the financial losses from employee theft and embezzlement.
Other costs of gambling include social costs. The social costs of gambling are substantial: about $13,000 per pathological gambler a year and $266 per capita adult. Those costs outweigh the benefits by more than three to one. Additionally, the presence of casinos increases crime rates, with nine percent of violent and property crimes attributable to casinos. The social costs of gambling are often not fully understood, so the costs are difficult to quantify.
Benefits
Whether you’re a casual gambler or a high roller, there are a number of benefits of gambling. This recreational activity can increase your energy levels, keep your mind sharp, and give you the opportunity to meet new people. It can also help you win big money, but there are risks involved. While the odds of winning a lot of money when gambling are slim, it’s worth trying. Here are some benefits of gambling that most people might not realize.
Gambling increases the economy of local communities. The money that casinos generate is spent right back into the area. Moreover, casinos create jobs and open up other businesses that benefit from the extra revenue. People living in areas that host casinos are the ones who enjoy the positive effects of gambling. The establishments provide jobs for people who might otherwise be unemployed or underpaid. Additionally, gambling venues open additional services, such as restaurants and other businesses in the area.
Treatment
Inpatient treatment may be necessary if a gambler’s addiction is severe. Inpatient treatment provides constant supervision, intensive daily sessions, and coaching in managing life differently. A few weeks inpatient can set a person on a positive path to recovery. While 28 days of inpatient care will not eliminate the compulsion, it will help establish a new way of life. Inpatient treatment may not be the ideal choice for all gamblers, but it is an excellent first step toward lasting recovery.
A diagnosis of the disorder is crucial. A mental-status examination is used to assess whether a person’s speech, mood, and memory have been affected by their addiction to gambling. X-rays and blood tests are not used to make the diagnosis of gambling addiction. However, if the symptoms of the disease are present, a doctor may recommend a treatment program based on the results. In many cases, therapy can help the patient recover from his gambling addiction.