What is Gambling?
The act of risking money, property or something of value on an activity with an uncertain outcome.
So far, in your lifetime, gambling has always been legal - for adults. Gambling has become a normal part of life, socially acceptable in society. For many types of gambling part of the money raised goes to support charity and schools. Many people can gamble responsibly and not develop problems. For some people, gambling can develop into a problem. For young people, problem gambling can lead to many problems including:
- Other addictions
- Criminal activity
- Poor grades
- Financial problems
- Worry for your family and friends
Statistics show that 8% of adolescents, 12 to 17 years old, can be considered problem gamblers. Further, approximately 15% of youths were considered to be at risk of developing problems with gambling.
In 2009 45% of 12th grade students reported some form of gambling. Playing cards for money is the most popular form of gambling among young people in Indiana. Betting on one's personal skill, such as shooting pool or bowling, is the next most common form of gambling among young people.
Online gambling is a popular type of gambling among young adults and full of unknowns. Over $15 billion spent worldwide in 2006. From poker sites to sports betting sites and more, gambling online is easy to find and with current technology, can be accessed just about anywhere.
Adolescent Problem Gambling
- On average, problem gamblers say they began gambling at about 10 years of age
- Studies of young people over the last 10 years report that about 8% of adolescents (12–17) can be considered problem gamblers, and ~15% are at risk
- The prevalence of adolescent problem gamblers is 2 to 4 times higher than adults
Adolescent Problem Gamblers
- Money is often not the driving factor
- Negatively affects school performance and work activities
- Disrupts relationships
- Often introduced to gambling by parents or close adults
Common Characteristics
- Poor coping skills
- Lower self-esteem
- Higher rates of depression
- Difficulty maintaining relationships
- Greater risk-taking tendencies
FAQ
- If you bet on a video game with your friends is this gambling?
Yes. Gambling is risking money or something of value on an uncertain outcome. This includes video games played for money. - What is problem gambling?
A problem gambler is someone whose gambling negatively affects their life or those around them. This includes school issues, conflicts, or financial stress. - Are there signs or symptoms of problem gambling?
Common signs include:- Constant thoughts about gambling
- Hiding gambling behavior
- Skipping responsibilities to gamble
- Lying about losses
- Borrowing or stealing money
- Feeling upset when unable to gamble
- Is gambling addiction as serious as drug addiction?
Yes. Both are addictive behaviors used to escape problems, but they often create bigger issues. - Why do young people gamble?
Mostly for excitement, enjoyment, and the “high” feeling—not for money. - What if my friends ask me to gamble?
Decide your reasons for not gambling and confidently express them. Suggest alternative ways to have fun. - What do I do if I think someone has a gambling problem?
Talk to a trusted adult such as a parent, teacher, or counselor. Professional help is available.