Sports gambling can be fun for adults, but it’s a dangerous game for children
Dec 15, 2022, 2:54 PM | Updated: Dec 19, 2022, 8:51 am
(Pexels Photo)
(Pexels Photo)
Sports gambling has exploded in popularity since becoming legal in Arizona last year, with billions of dollars being wagered in the first 12 months alone.
While adults may find that sports gambling is a way to enhance the experience with more than just fandom on the line, it can be a dangerous proposition if children get involved in the activity.
The Arizona Division of Problem Gambling believes it is better to give children guidance and information sooner rather than later as what may seem like a harmless bet could have the potential to snowball into a more significant problem as time goes on.
The agency said children who get involved with gambling at a young age are more likely to develop gambling-related problems as adults.
The National Council on Problem Gambling found between 60% and 80% of high school students across the country had gambled for money in the past year, and that 4% to 6% of high schoolers are considered addicted to the activity.
It is also possible that gambling may not be the only harmful activity a child is participating in as evidenced by statewide youth surveys regarding risky behaviors.
“What we found year after year is that if kids are participating in other risky behaviors, such as drinking, truancy and drugs, that they are gambling as well,” Elise Mikkelsen, director of The Arizona Division of Problem Gambling, said on “All In The Addicted Gambler’s Podcast.”
“People are really shocked by that.”
Mikkelsen added that prior surveys had shown gambling is the risky behavior children participate in at the youngest age.
The agency offers various ways to help solve a gambling issue for both children and adults, such as the signs and symptoms of a problem, a self-assessment quiz, treatment providers and helpful websites.
There are also preventative measures available, including tailored presentations and information.
It is advised that parents, medical professionals and educators let kids know the risks involved with gambling and the true odds of winning and losing.
The agency said watching sports together may be a family activity, but only adults should partake in sports wagering.
