|
We have known for a long time that children are
not immune to the pull of addictive substances
like drugs and alcohol. What we need to
recognize is that they are not immune to the
lure of the
action and excitement of gambling.
You may be shocked to learn that in a recent
survey of 900 New Jersey high school juniors and
seniors, a full 30 percent told us they place a
bet at least once a week, either at cards, the
casinos,
the track, on sports or the lottery. Almost one
third!
We believe that about four percent of those
actually fit the profile of the compulsive
gambler -
approximately the same proportion as in the
adult population.
Most disturbing were the 55 or so kids who said
they borrowed to gamble, and the 30 or so who
actually stole from other people to keep up
their habit.
And what about the countless other children
living with a parent or other family member who
gambles? They are carried right along with the
gambler through the fear and shame and the
frightening personal, financial and legal
problems.
What more do we need to hear from our youngsters
to convince us that they need to learn about
the dangers of compulsive gambling and to be
given help when it does affect their lives?
Our work this year must include promoting an
awareness that compulsive gambling can have the
most damaging effect on the most vulnerable
amount - us. And the place to bring that message
is
our schools.
Back to casino
news
|
