Is Teenage Gambling a Problem in Canada?

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Gambling has become one of the major components in Canada’s entertainment industry. Not only has gambling become popular among adults, but it has also gained

popularity among teenagers. The various types of gambling include lottery or scratch

cards, card games such as blackjack, bingo and gambling machines. Gambling can affect

an individual both mentally and physically. Some of the harmful effects of gambling

include experiencing depression, isolation, loss of sleep, stress related problems, loss of

control and many more. Even though, the minimum age for gambling is 19 ("Ontario Canada", n.d), teenagers who play card games or dice games for money with their friends and families is defined to be as “gambling.” The proof that supports this statement is by Dr. Jorge Pinson, the chair of the CPS Adolescent Health Committee states, “If children are playing cards or dice games for money—even if it’s with their family members—then they are gambling…It seems harmless, but as kids get older, these behaviors can develop into more serious gambling activities. And far too many youth develop problems with gambling.” (Dr. Jorge Pinson, n.d).

There are various signs and symptoms that are observed in individuals that have

problems with gambling. Some of the signs of gambling include struggling with

emotions, doing poorly in school, issues with substance abuse, money problems, and

many more. Gamblers who are addicted to gambling can have conflict with their

emotions as they are likely to develop depression, anxiety and frustration. Teenagers who

gamble would also be likely to do poorly in school because if they are too busy gambling,

they are prone to not attending school on a regular basis. Substance abuse is also a key ...

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...from http://www.cps.ca/media/release-communique/dangers-of-teen-gambling

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