FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

My kids often have friends over to play poker or we play as a family. Is there anything wrong with that?

Playing poker in a private home is not illegal. However since some people may be more at risk of developing a problem than others, you need to decide if it is worth the risk for your child. If you decide to allow or to participate in gambling activities in your home, it's important to be aware of how often the kids are playing, for how long, and the amount of money being wagered so that you can set appropriate limits. Always check with other kids' parents to make sure they are allowed to participate in gambling activities like poker before allowing games at your home.

Every summer we go to the Racetrack as a family and I usually give my kids a couple dollars to bet on a horse or race. What’s the big deal?

Gambling on horse racing is illegal for anyone under the age of 18. Introducing youth to any form of gambling at an early age increases the likelihood that they will develop gambling-related problems at some point during their lifetime.

My kid plays poker on the Internet, but not for money -- just for fun. Should I allow it?

Gambling at “non-pay” poker sites is legal. However, these sites are often young peoples' first introduction to gambling, and the rate of winning is unrealistically high. Youth often feel that if they were able to play "for real,” they would be able to make money. When they transfer to pay sites, their activity not only becomes illegal, but their rate of winning decreases significantly. Credit card debt can accumulate quickly this way, so be aware of your kids' activity on the Internet and keep close tabs on your credit card statements.

I’ve heard some teens talking about a game called C-lo. What is it?

C-lo (sometimes spelled cilo, celo, cee-lo, or cee-low) is a game of chance played with three 6-sided dice. Bets are placed on each throw of the dice and debt can accumulate quickly. If you think your child is playing C-lo discuss it with them immediately.

Do that many people in our area really develop/ have problems with gambling?

National data on problem gambling indicates that approximately 1 out of every 25 youth between the ages of 13-17 is at-risk of developing a problem related to gambling.
According to a 10-year survey by the New York Council on Problem Gambling (1986-1996), 328,000 adults across the state had experienced difficulties related to their gambling habits.
Research also shows that problem gambling increases by as much as 50% within 50 miles of a gambling facility.
A 2006 study conducted by the New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse services indicates that 20% of youth in NYS are at-risk of developing a problem with gambling.
In addition to financial difficulties, other serious consequences of problem gambling include family conflict, social and emotional problems, and suicide.

How would I know if someone has a problem with gambling?

Be aware of the warning signs, which can include:

Increased time spent engaged in gambling activities
Decrease in previously enjoyable activities and primary interest in gambling related activities
Increased anxiety and depression
Problems at home and/ or with friends, significant other
Financial difficulties despite regular income
Selling possessions to finance gambling
Unexplained absences from school or classes
Sudden drop in grades or failure to complete assignments on time
Change of personality or behavior
Exaggerated display of money or other material possessions
Daily or weekly card game
Bragging about winning at gambling
Intense interest in gambling conversations
Unusual interest in newspapers/magazines/periodicals/sports scores
Unaccountable explanation for new items of value in possession
Borrowing or stealing money
Withdrawing from family and friends
Uncharacteristically forgetting appointments or dates
Exaggerated use of word “bet” in vocabulary and/or use of gambling language in conversations (e.g. bookie, point spread, underdog, favorite)

What should I do if I think someone I know might have a problem?

If it is your peer:

Tell your friend that you care about him/her and that you feel concerned about the way you see him/her acting. "You're a good friend, and I'm upset because I see you doing things that are really risky."
Tell your friend exactly what he/she has done that concerns you. "Last night you were going to spend only $20 and yet you lost over $300."
After you tell your friend that you care, what you've seen and how you feel, it's important to be willing to listen to what he/she says.
Tell your friend what you would like to see him or her do. "If you're going to gamble, I want you to set a limit for losses ahead of time and stick to it."
Tell your friend that you are willing and able to help. “I'm always here if you need a friend to talk to or just a hug."

If it is your child:

Talk to them about their gambling behavior and your concerns.
Call your local prevention or treatment facility to discuss your concerns and schedule a problem gambling screening. Call the NY Council on Problem Gambling’s Helpline at 1-800-437-1611 to get contact information for your local providers.