Many people have hobbies, like gambling, that give them a chance to escape from their daily stresses. Hobbies like this often generate feel-good hormones, which can improve mood and concentration, making it easier to manage daily life. But, when the hobby becomes an addiction, it can lead to serious problems.

Casino, which stars Robert De Niro and Joe Pesci, is a movie about two mobster partners whose marriage is in trouble because of their egos and addiction to gambling. The film is a classic example of how a casino can make otherwise rational people throw away hundreds or even thousands of dollars on a roll of the dice or a spin of the wheel.

Business Insider reports that casinos use sounds, lights, and physical design to manipulate people into spending money. They also have a variety of tricks to keep players from leaving. For instance, bathrooms are usually located deep inside the casino, forcing players to walk past more opportunities to press their luck. And, they are famous for not having clocks or windows so that players don’t realize how much time has passed.

Casinos are also known for offering comps, like free meals and rooms, to loyal gamblers. These incentives can encourage players to stay longer and spend more money. These rewards are intended to make players feel valued and encouraged to gamble more, and the more they spend, the more they earn. This strategy is especially effective because it can prevent a player from leaving the gambling environment to meet basic needs, such as food and sleep, which could make them more likely to gamble on impulse.