Gambling And Youth

Gambling is any behaviour that involves the risking of money or valuables on the outcome of a game, contest, or other event that is partially or totally dependent on chance.

For most people, gambling is something they do occasionally as a form of recreation. They play Bingo, buy a lottery ticket, bet a few dollars on a sporting event, or drop a loonie into a machine. When the draw or the game is over, they move on to other non-gambling activities. For some people though, gambling becomes a problem.

Gambling activity is on the rise in our province. Gambling among youth is also gaining increased attention. According to the 1996 Newfoundland and Labrador Student Drug Use Survey, there are students in grades 7, 9, 10, and 12 who are already looking for help for their gambling behavior. The main gambling activities our youth are involved in include; bingo, playing cards for money, sports betting, and playing lotteries.

Problem gamblers are defined as individuals who suffer a loss of control over their gambling behaviour. Teen problem gambling behavior results in negative consequences including: school and family problems, and peer relationship, legal and money troubles.

Why Do Teens Gamble?

• History of gambling in the family
• Problems at home
• Low self-esteem
• Peer pressure
• The action of the game
• To win money
• To gain attention from peers

Gambling and the Law

Gambling is an illegal activity for anyone under the age of 19 years.

• Asking for money, borrowing from friends and family
• Having gambling "stuff" at home (lottery tickets, betting sheets)
• Unexplained debts or windfall cash
• Telephone calls from strangers and higher phone bills
• Unexplained absences from home, school or work
• Increased day dreaming and anxiety
• Extreme moodiness
• Withdrawal from relationships, school groups or activities

• As a community we can educate ourselves about gambling activity
• As a school we can review policies on gambling activity on school property
• As a family we can talk about safe gambling
• As a student we can learn the difference between safe and problem gambling

1. Show a video on teenage gambling and discuss the issues presented.
2. Invite a guest speaker in to discuss teen gambling issues.
3. Research and write an article on teen gambling for your school or local newspaper.
4. Develop a school or community display highlighting the issues around problem gambling
5. Set up teams to research and debate the pros and cons of gambling
6. Ask students to watch for advertisements on T.V., radio, or billboards on gambling. What messages are these ads trying to convey about gambling and how might these messages affect attitudes and behaviours towards gambling?

Help is Available
If you or someone you know is concerned about their gambling behaviour, help is available. Talk to an addictions counsellor, the school guidance counsellor, a family member or close friend.

For additional information, please contact one of the following Addictions Services Offices.