Gambling is the act of risking something of value on an activity that involves chance and has a high degree of uncertainty. It has been a part of human society since prerecorded history, and is a significant part of many cultures, including as a component of religious ceremonies. Gambling is often considered a fun and enjoyable pastime and can provide social interaction, but it can also have negative impacts on people’s lives.

While the positive aspects of gambling include winning cash, social interactions and contributing to the economy, the negative consequences are severe and can have a profound effect on a person’s quality of life. Problem gambling can be defined as the repeated, compulsive use of a wagering system that entails an addiction to risk and is not under control. In addition, it may involve a variety of negative behaviors, such as lying to family members or therapists about the extent of gambling behavior; spending more than one’s income, including on credit cards and other loans; committing illegal acts (theft, fraud, embezzlement) in order to finance gambling activities; and jeopardizing relationships, jobs, education, career opportunities and financial security in pursuit of gambling goals.

The negative impacts of gambling can be structured into a cost–benefit framework, with costs categorized as both direct and indirect. Direct impacts are personal and interpersonal in nature and include invisible individual impacts, such as harms to a gambler’s quality of life. Indirect impacts are societal/community in nature and can be general, problem gambling related or long-term.