The economic crisis has increased the number of people who are willing to bet part of their money on a number or on a card, in the hope of a quick gain. Sociologist Alfred Bulai explains the mechanisms which determine this phenomenon.
Reporter: Mr. Bulai, can it be said that there is a correlation between the economic crisis and gambling?
Alfred Bulai: There is a tendency of people to find a game that quickly satisfies certain needs they have. The crisis creates the mirage of a quick gain, especially when there are no opportunities of obtaining large amounts quickly and legally. Games, from casino to lotteries, target different types of people, each of them have their own target. The games that rely on chance which simply do not involve any particular expertise or very high investments are a lot more sought out at times like this. It depends on everyone's status, people of modest financial means turn to alternatives that involve lower costs. From a certain level upwards, the stakes are higher and the demands as well. Some lose a lot, others lose a little. I would not necessarily say that casinos are affected because they are aimed at a certain type of player. Let's be serious, this story of the crisis affecting absolutely everyone is a myth. Those who know how to capitalize on the effects of the crisis actually do make big profits. And even among people who earn a lot there are some who feel the need to bet.
Reporter: Does gambling create addiction?
Alfred Bulai: Addiction obviously arises eventually. People give up the things that involve high expenses, but they continue to satisfy some of their specific needs. There are different levels to this addiction to gambling. Even when it comes to the lottery, it's one thing to play every now and then, and another to be at the counter of the lottery every week to try your luck again.
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