How to Evaluate the Effects of Gambling

Gambling can be an incredibly lucrative industry. While it may be enjoyable for some people, it can also have detrimental impacts on their lives. There are several ways to assess the effects of gambling. For example, a public health approach evaluates the social, physical, and psychological impacts of gambling across a spectrum of severity. However, there are key methodological challenges in assessing gambling’s impacts. Fortunately, there are some basic principles for impact studies that anyone can follow.

Most states restrict gambling in some form, either for fun or for profit. State gambling laws prohibit certain forms of gaming and may result in up to a year in jail. However, some states only impose a twenty-day maximum jail sentence for misdemeanor gambling. Felony gambling can result in prison sentences of 10 years or more, and is often associated with organized professional gambling. Fines can be high, ranging from a few hundred dollars to thousands, and they may be separate from or in addition to jail time.

Although the impact of gambling has not been widely studied, some negative effects of the activity have been reported. In addition to the negative impacts on the individual, it can affect community-level institutions. Increasing property values and other costs of living have been associated with casino gambling. However, it is important to remember that social costs are not directly related to individual wellbeing. Small businesses are particularly vulnerable to gambling’s negative impacts. Many of these businesses are dependent on gambling revenue and the associated jobs.