Young gamblers on the rise

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by Change | 22 Apr 2009

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There are a growing number of teenagers and children gambling in the US, which could lead to a significant rise in the number seeking addiction treatment in the future

Teenagers and children in the US are increasingly gambling, leading some experts to warn there could be a significant rise in the number of young people needing addition treatment in the future.

According to figures from the North American Training Institute (Nati), the number of young people gambling has soared in recent years and the popularity could mean many youngsters will be seeking out rehab centers to tackle gambling addictions in future.

Poker is understood to be particularly popular among teens in the US, but the institute warns that young people are two to three times more likely to develop a gambling addition than adults.

"Many parents believe they have finally found something for their teen to do that is fun and harmless and they will enthusiastically support school-sponsored casino nights at their school," said Elizabeth George, chief executive of the Minnesota-based Nati.

However, she warned: "It is important for parents and teachers to know the symptoms of an addiction to gambling."

A recent study of children in the US published in the journal Psychological Science has suggested at least one in ten is addicted to video games, demonstrating the susceptibility of youngsters to pick up addictions.

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