What are the social costs of gambling? Mostly, studies on gambling have considered only the economic costs of gambling. However, a few studies have also considered the social costs of gambling. Walker and Barnett have defined social costs as those that harm someone while benefiting no one. These costs are generally social in nature rather than personal. The social costs of gambling are often underestimated because of this, but there is no definitive definition of social cost. This article aims to provide an overview of social costs of gambling.
Impacts on individuals
The impact of gambling on individuals is widely discussed, but how can we determine its true costs? To make a meaningful analysis of the costs, the Productivity Commission should gather data from a representative sample and consider both positive and negative impacts of gambling. These data should include both the positive and negative impacts of gambling, and allow for regional and population-level comparisons. To be truly effective, the study must include information about all gambling behaviors, including pathological gambling.
Impacts on communities
Public health experts are beginning to examine the negative impact of gambling. In a recent study, Williams, Rehm, and Stevens examined 492 studies examining the impact of gambling. They found that the greatest economic impacts of gambling were increased revenue for local governments and the provision of public services. Regulatory costs also increased. The most notable social impacts were increased crime and socio-economic inequity, and negative attitudes toward gambling.
Impacts on small businesses
There are many ways to evaluate the impact of gambling on a business. Several impact studies have been conducted and the findings indicate that problem gambling can adversely affect a business in a number of different ways. Some of these impacts include employment costs, revenue loss, and the costs of infrastructure. Other impacts can be seen as social or interpersonal costs, which can include criminal acts and poor work performance. Here are some of the most important types of impacts and the ways they can affect a business.
Impacts on public services
As with many social issues, politics intersect with the debate over gambling, and the impacts of gambling on public services are not only localized but also cross-state and even cross-Native American. Unfortunately, some individuals see opportunities for profit at these intersections, and some people see these issues as a way to make even more money. This is the case with Jack Abramoff, a prominent lobbyist in Washington, D.C. who pleaded guilty to fraud, tax evasion, and conspiracy to bribe public officials. Abramoff was sentenced to five years and 10 months in prison, and ordered to pay $21 million in restitution.
Costs of problem gambling
The cost of problem gambling is not always measured directly, but can be indirectly calculated. The productivity lost to problem gambling can be measured by the time spent by workers on phone calls, extended lunch breaks, and internet browsing. A study from Quebec, Canada, showed that problem gamblers cost employers about $5 million a year in lost wages, as employees spend about 5 hours a month gambling. The study does not include the cost of transfer payments within the social security system, however, to avoid double counting.