Many teens in Oregon have problems with gambling. Parents, educators, and other adults should consider the potential pitfalls of gambling among our youth. 

Teen problem gamblers have higher rates of: 

• Crime (theft, robbery, embezzlement)
• School problems (e.g., lower grades, truancy, behavior issues)
• Family problems (e.g., withdrawal, behavior issues)
• Peer relationship problems
• Legal and money troubles
• Depression
• Suicidal thoughts and attempts
• Dissociative, "escape" behaviors
• Risk for other addiction(s), including alcohol and substance abuse

Sources: Gupta & Derevensky; 1998a; Gupta & Derevensky, 1998b; Vitaro, Ferland, Jacques & Ladouceur, 1998; Wallisch & Liu, 1996; Winters & Anderson, 2000; Wynne, Smith, & Jacobs, 1996.

If they're not doing drugs or out driving drunk, what's the big deal with a little poker game or sports bet?

It's true that for most people, gambling is innocent fun; most Oregonians gamble once in a while and don't experience many negative consequences.  However, a growing number of teens are gambling, and that's a concern for many.

Prevention experts know, like with alcohol and drugs, that the earlier on in life a person begins to gamble, the more likely that individual is to develop a problem later in life.

Consider that young people don't always yet have the best coping or decision-making skills.  Young people can easily hide a gambling problem.  And for many, the problem develops over several years.  Many problem gamblers say they started out gambling at an early age--approximately 10 years old (Gupta & Derevensky, 2001; Gupta & Derevensky, 1998a). With no needle marks, drowsy walking, bloodshot eyes, or other tell-tale signs, a young person who has a gambling problem can easily hide it.

Next: What kids are gambling on