Teens with a Gambling Problem?
Thursday May 8, 2008
Teens with a Gambling Problem?
Perusing the Net today, I came upon this article: 1 in 50 Teens May Have Gambling Problem. It says, "results of the first national survey of its kind show problem gambling described as gambling with three or more negative consequences (for example, gambling more than you intended or stealing money to gamble) in the past year occurring at a rate of 2.1 percent among youth 14 to 21."
It goes on to state, "11 percent of the youth surveyed gambled twice per week or more, a rate that has traditionally been used to describe 'frequent' gambling." That is a lot of gambling, right? Im amazed at these numbers and havent come across this problem personally. I plan on talking to my teen about it and seeing her perspective. How about you? Have you had some experience with this teen issue? What did you think of the article? Let us know your thoughts in the comments area.
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Comments
I am certain that we have all “come across this problem personally” but may not have recognized it as a problem because many of us have grown up in a world where gambling is permitted and socially acceptable.
Playing poker for money or another thing of value is gambling; purchasing and scratching off a lottery ticket is gambling; participating in a sports “pool” is gambling; participating in a raffle is gambling; playing bingo is gambling.
In short, risking money or any thing of value on an event with an uncertain outcome in the hopes of winning money or a thing of value is gambling.
Do your research and talk to your children.
In today’s world gambling is an acceptable form of entertainment far and wide. Most people are able to gamble responsibly, but unfortunately others cannot. Statistics show the younger someone is when they start gambling the more likely they will develop a gambling problem later in life.
I am 27 years old and I’ve grown up in a world that accepts and embraces gambling. Bingo at school parties, a friendly poker game, going to the race track with my family, playing lottery… the list could go on and on.
Though people may not realize their children are gambling, more than likely they are.
It is just as important for parents to discuss the dangers of gambling as it is for them to discuss the dangers of drug and alcohol use. Be aware what your children are doing and what types of activities they are participating in. Gambling may be an entertaining way for most adults to spend their time, but it should not be an option for children.