Problem Gambling >> F.A.Q's

Why do boys develop more problems than girls when they gamble?    Top

We don't know for sure why more boys develop gambling problems than girls. Researchers have suggested that boys may be more attracted to the competitive nature of gambling games. If the competitive nature of gambling games is attractive to someone, encouraging them to engage in alternative activities such as competing in sports events may be helpful.

Boys may also be more susceptible to develop gambling problems than girls because they participate in gambling activities that are more problematic, such as sports betting. People believe that knowledge about the teams and the players increases their chance of placing a winning bet. Anything can happen during a game (a key player gets injured, the best defence player gets a long penalty, etc) and the outcome of the events can change. Sport betting is a risky activity.

Why do people develop gambling problems?    Top

People play for different reasons. Individuals who do not have a gambling problem play once in a while and for enjoyment. They are willing to take their chances with small amounts of money reserved for leisure activities. On the other hand, people who have a gambling problem report gambling to escape their problems, to feel important, or to feel alive. They also believe they can win their money back by developing strategies to control the outcomes. However, we know that chance is random and cannot be controlled.

Is a gambling addiction as serious as a drug addiction?    Top

Yes, it can be in many ways. When an individual has a gambling problem, the person can become preoccupied with gambling. The individual with a gambling problem has an uncontrollable urge to gamble which makes them do things they wouldn't normally do; just like when someone has a drug addiction. People who are addicted believe that what they do helps them forget their problems. They see gambling or drugs as a solution to their problems when in fact the addiction only adds to their problems. Individuals suffering from a gambling problem can stop gambling, sometimes by themselves and other times with professional help.

Why do we try to restrict the access and participation of gambling activities to youth?    Top

Adults and the public have a shared responsibility to protect youth from engaging in a risky activity. It is important to teach children and teenagers about the risks involved with gambling. Should teenagers decide to gamble, learning about the dangers associated with gambling can help them become informed consumers and set responsible limits of time and money. Research shows that the earlier you start gambling, the more at risk one becomes to develop a gambling problem.

What can I do if my friends ask me to gamble?    Top

First, you have to make the decision not to gamble and then think of the reasons why you don't want to gamble. Once you know your reasons you can practice asserting yourself. You can also talk about what you've learned about gambling and gambling problems. Express that you prefer saving your money for something you are sure to get. Express the fact that you don't need to gamble to enjoy yourself.