GAMBLING PROBLEMS : : A STEP TO BE TAKEN
Problem gambling among youth can be difficult to detect because it is a hidden addiction with no obvious signs (e.g., smell of liquor on breath, bloodshot eyes). Since the symptoms of youth problem gambling are not visible, it is important to routinely inquire about gambling and gambling games like craps, similar to how parents routinely inquire about drug and alcohol use.
If your child is interested in and participates in gambling, you can ask simple questions such as, “Have you ever felt the need to bet more and more money?” and “Can you tell me, honestly and accurately, how much you’re gambling?” It is important for parents to be educated and understand youth gambling so they are able to evaluate gambling behaviors in their own children.
As with many challenging issues for youth, it is important to talk about gambling. It is also important for parents to examine their own attitudes and habits around gambling. Youth may not know that online gambling is illegal for everyone in the United States and that it is illegal for minors to participate in all gambling venues designed for adults. Parents can monitor increasing involvement in gambling-related activities.
As a parent, you can: Respect your child’s privacy but recognize that an increase in isolation can be a warning sign. Be aware of the amount of time your child spends playing gambling type games on the internet. Many poker sites offer free lessons. Respectfully track internet sites that your child visits. Use parent control options to block inappropriate sites. Monitor cell phone usage for any repeated calls to unknown numbers and respectfully investigate frequent calls to unknown numbers. Look for a time to raise the topic of gambling naturally.
For example, after viewing a commercial for upcoming gambling events such as the World Series of Poker on ESPN or after passing a billboard advertising a casino, ask your child what he or she thinks about the advertisement and gambling. Ask your child to share his or her ideas and feelings about gambling before offering your own information about gambling. Provide opportunities within a variety of settings to discuss gambling. Your child may have difficulty articulating thoughts and feelings about gambling during an initial discussion. But after thinking about the issue further, he or she may have more opinions and questions to share and discuss.