Base on my experience, it does drive them to continue on working specially when they keep on loosing.
I have some workmates who gambles and wants to quit on our work, but couldn't do it since they need money for their vices (gambling and going out).
It might not drive them to work harder, but it would definitely keeps them working.
That’s a real-life experience, good to know you know people doing that. It’s actually fine since they’re working to finance their gambling and not stealing money. And honestly, it’s not really a problem if they’re enjoying what they’re doing.
At the end of the day, we don’t just work to feed ourselves and survive, we also work to have fun.
Gambling is that special kind of fun that gives real thrill to real gamblers.