Tom McIlroy
AUSTRALIAN teenagers are adopting the gambling habits of their parents.
Nearly two-thirds of 13 to 17-year-olds have revealed they have gambled at least once a year.
Household exposure to gambling by adults, particularly fathers, increases the risk children will develop gambling problems in later life, an Australian Psychological Society study says.
Co-author Associate Prof Paul Delfabbro warned that there was already frequent exposure on the internet.
“All the time they are reminded of the opportunity to gamble and this awareness, in addition to opportunities like poker machines or betting at the TAB, can pose risks for young people,” he said.
Interactive gambling such as online casino games are prohibited in Australia.
The report also calls for the development of gambling prevention programs for young people and a reduction in their exposure to gambling advertising.
Prof Delfabbro warned that even common pastimes like card games could make gambling seem normal for young people.
“All the evidence shows that we do what our parents do, and if kids are learning casino-style card games that teach them how to gamble, they will repeat that behaviour elsewhere,” he said.
He encouraged parents to have mature conversations with their children about the risks of gambling and the likelihood of success.
“The important thing is that young people should recognise that the nature of the industry is to make a profit,” he said.
“The industry knows how to ensure they make money from your behaviour.”
Prof Delfabbro cautioned parents against telling young people that they won’t win in the short term.
“Most people have to win big first,” he said.
“The problem is that gamblers can’t win in the longer term,” he said.
Source: www. heraldsun.com.au
