A common view is that gambling is negative. In particular, this view is common among religious groups. 2 Others argue that the motivation is positive, that people enjoy gambling and it is usually a harmless diversion. Because people enjoy it they continue to gamble in spite of losing. Any discussion of the motivation of gambling usually starts with the natural comparison to life.
Life is a gamble.
Everyday, people are faced with situations which involve risk and chance. Gambling activities are extensions of the risk and chance in life. The activity of gambling becomes play, it becomes a game. Gambling allows the person the choice of engaging in the activity, the amount of risk and, in many cases, the stakes. The stakes are a necessary element for many people.