Gambling is an activity in which something of value, such as money or goods, is put at risk in an attempt to win something of greater value. It can be in the form of games of chance or of skill, and it is usually regulated by law. People gamble for many different reasons, from the potential excitement of winning a large jackpot to simply socializing with friends. Many people also feel a sense of achievement when they gamble. In addition, gambling can cause feelings of euphoria because it stimulates the brain’s reward system.

There are many benefits to gambling, from job creation and increased consumer spending to infrastructure improvements funded by casino revenues and support for local businesses through partnerships and sponsorships. In addition, gambling taxes are often used to help defray crime and other public costs. However, gambling also creates negative effects, which are often overlooked or underestimated.

Negative consequences of gambling can include conflicts in relationships, financial strain, and mental health problems. Those who suffer from gambling addiction are at greater risk of depression, anxiety and suicide. Those who are at greater risk of developing a gambling problem include adolescents, veterans, aging adults and members of certain ethnic and racial groups. Adolescents who spend too much time playing video and mobile games that require micro-transactions and payments may be at a higher risk of becoming problem gamblers.

Another impact of gambling is the harm caused to families and communities. Family members and others who live with someone who has a gambling problem can suffer from stress, anger, anxiety, shame and worry. They can also become resentful of the person who is addicted to gambling and blame them for the problems in their lives. Some of the signs that a person is suffering from gambling addiction are lying, breaking promises and hiding food or rent/mortgage money to gamble.

Research into the economic impacts of gambling is continuing to advance, but there is still a need for more balanced measurement studies. In particular, more attention should be given to the identification of costs associated with pathological gambling. This will require an analysis of both tangible and intangible costs, as well as real and transfer effects. Currently, most gross impact studies focus on identifying and quantifying benefits without taking these issues into account. This is a serious shortcoming. However, some recent studies have begun to address these weaknesses.