The 7th annual National Problem Gambling Awareness Week is March 1-7. The purpose of this week is to raise awareness about both the warning signs of problem gambling and the help that is available.
Statistics about Gambling Problems
The prevalence of gambling problems and addictions may be greater than most people realize. In reality, “2%-3% of the US population will have a gambling problem in any given year.” (NPGAW Website, 2009). Gambling is especially risky for teens, and can more easily escalate into a problem behavior. “Approximately 4%-8% of kids between 12 and 17 years of age meet criteria for a gambling problem, and another 10%-15% are at risk of developing a problem.” (Youth Gambling, NPGAW website, 2007).
Reasons Teen Gamble
There are many reasons why gambling might be particularly appealing to teens, and why a behavior that starts out as a small diversion may become an addiction. For one, gambling opportunities are easily available and heavily promoted in this culture. “This is the first generation of youth to be exposed to relatively easy access to a variety of gambling venues, widespread gambling advertising, and to pervasive social approval for an inherently risky activity.” (Dr. Ken Winters, Youth Gambling, NPGAW website, 2007).
Teens are also savvy internet users, and the explosion of online betting opportunities with little or no “carding” procedures make gambling easily accessible. Credit cards companies are offering credit to younger and younger customers; teens who are able to get credit cards have easy access to large amounts of money, which may increase their risk of getting into trouble with gambling. Teens may also be at particular risk because of where they are developmentally. They tend to be impulsive, risk-taking, and seek immediate gratification.
Signs of a Gambling Problem
Many of the behaviors one might notice in a teen with a gambling addiction are similar to those of other types of addictions. They include:
- Inability to stop gambling
- Hiding evidence of gambling from family members
- Lost time from school or work due to gambling
- Borrowing money, selling possessions, or stealing to support gambling
- Possession of large amounts of money
- Suspicious behavior on computer
- Possession of or showing off of expensive items
Participating in NPGAW
The NPAW website has a variety of tools available that can be used to promote awareness about problem gambling. There are posters, brochures, public service announcements, press releases, screening tools, and many other resources. The site also provides ideas for participating in NPAW that would be appropriate for any setting and level of participation. There is also a toll-free, anonymous, 24 hour hotline set up to provide assistance to anyone who thinks they may have a problem with gambling. The number for the hotline is 1-800-522-4700
For a variety of reasons, teens may be at particular risk of developing a gambling problem. During NPAW, as well as at any other time of the year, kids need to be made aware of the signs and dangers of problem gambling, as well as how they can get help.
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