youth/college GAMBLING
What does TEEN gambling look Like?
When you hear “gambling,” what comes to mind? A gas station lotto ticket? A casino? Someone betting on horses? How old are the people in those scenarios? Do you hear “gambling” and think of a 14 year old placing bets on their favorite esports team? What about a 10 year old opening loot crates in a video game? The point is, you may be gambling even if you don’t think of it that way. And where there’s gambling, there’s risk. And what’s the greatest risk? Developing a gambling problem, especially young, is a set-up for a lifetime of struggles. If you think you or someone you know might have a gambling problem, call 1-800-GAMBLER anytime. It’s fast, free, and confidential.
Esports
Watching players battle against each other to win your favorite video game can be fun, but if you find yourself using real (or fake) money to bet on the outcome, it won’t be fun explaining to your parents where all your money went.
Online Gambling
It’s easy to get sucked into spending too much time online, sometimes at the expense of your school work or social life. When gambling is involved, it’s even trickier. Online casinos and games, whether you’re using real or fake money, can lure you into thinking you're just a click away from a big jackpot.
Sports Betting
Many people think that because they are good with sports, or with numbers, they can easily make a lot of money betting on sports. The truth is, even if you have occasional wins, odds are you’ll eventually lose more than you ever won.
Fantasy Leagues
Your dream team can quickly turn into a nightmare for your wallet if you think this is a good way to make a buck. The big companies that run these sites count on players to overestimate their luck and skill so they can cash in on your hopes.
Loot Boxes
Loot Crates, Treasure Chests, Prize Boxes, – they have tons of names but what they share is complete randomness. Instead of just paying for the gear or upgrade that you really want, you “roll the dice” until you get the prize you’re looking for. A slot machine uses a very similar method. Players complain about these features, but you can guess why developers keep using them.
2-4x MORE Risk
Kids who gamble are at 2 to 4 times more risk of developing a gambling problem than adults. That means instead of saving for a house or a car, all your money ends up in someone else’s pocket-and you have nothing to show for it.
Youth Survey Results
Many are surprised to learn that young people gamble, and that they are 2-4 times more likely to become addicted to gambling than adults. We worked with youth groups around the state to survey hundreds of middle and high school students about their feelings and experiences with gambling. We learned that many students here in West Virginia do gamble, and some are already showing signs of problem gambling.
How often do you bet for money?
Have you ever felt concerned that one of your friends/family members spends too much time and/or money betting?
Why do you gamble?
Have you participated in any of the following types of gambling?
128 did not think gambling could become an addiction
41 said they gambled “often”
21 admitted they hid their gambling from others
67 said they would like to stop gambling, but did not know how
College Survey Results
According to the National Council on Problem Gambling, 75% of college students gambled during the last year, and 6% have a serious gambling problem. We surveyed 250 student athletes in WV to find out about their experiences with and attitudes towards gambling.
