Have you ever noticed that whenever the economy is in a downturn, certain industries actually thrive against the trend? Especially gambling and the adult industry, these two "stress outlet" industries always manage to grow during recessions.
The reasons are as follows: First, psychological pressure plays a role. Economic downturns bring unemployment and insecurity, making people eager for quick relief from anxiety. Gambling and adult content provide "instant stimulation," allowing people to temporarily escape reality. Despite knowing the risks, some still place bets to seek a sense of control. Emotional loneliness also leads many to turn to adult entertainment, spending a small amount of money for psychological comfort.
Second, there are real cases in Western countries. During the 2008 financial crisis in the United States, online gambling saw explosive growth, and adult content traffic also surged. The same was true in Europe. The more depressed the economy, the more people crave convenient, low-cost "emotional outlets."
Third, the threshold for digital entertainment is low. Online gambling, adult films, and live streaming platforms are accessible with just a smartphone, almost zero barriers. In places like Japan and the West, these industries have already formed mature profit models, rapidly expanding with the help of the internet and technology, even leveraging VR to tap into new blue oceans.
Fourth, lenient policies help boost. For example, the legalization of gambling in parts of the UK and the US provides space for industry development; adult content is gradually legalized and commercialized, gaining a stable position in mainstream society.
Finally, the prosperity of these industries reflects the social anxiety in economic hardships. People's needs to escape reality and seek comfort are stronger. However, without long-term coping mechanisms, relying on gambling or erotic content could potentially amplify psychological hidden dangers and social risks. In the frenzy of digital entertainment, we should think more about how to face the trough and how to truly get out of it.
