Gambling: Too Early to Start, Too Late to Quit

“Too Early to Start, Too Late to Quit” Gambling addictions have become a prominent problem in today’s society. Gambling is to stake or risk money, or anything of value, on the outcome of something involving chance. Like cigarettes, drugs, and alcohol, gambling can be very addictive if not monitored properly. A major cause on the increase in gambling addictions is the media. The media portrays gambling in a positive, harmless manner that encourages all to participate. Although, some addictions can occur after one has become an adult, most are traced back to childhood. With the increasing age of technology, children and adolescents are exposed to gambling nearly everywhere they go. Whether it is on the internet, television, or even billboard advertisements, gambling is everywhere. Exposure to gambling and gambling addictions at an early age can effect development, decision-making, and judgment, all psychological focuses. Through research, psychologists have proven that exposure and participation in gambling at a young age has had a direct effect on later use of drugs and alcohol. Today’s generation is the first to experience legalized gambling and a society that for the most part accepts the new trend, but has yet to realize its consequences. Gambling has always been around in some shape or form, but today it has exploded to an all-time high. Through the media, gambling has gained popularity throughout the world. Whether it is the World Series of Poker aired live on ESPN or a Harrah’s boat on the river, gambling has presented itself to the world and to all ages. Access to the internet is all that is needed for a teen to start gambling. “Statistics show that teenage Internet gambling is one of the fastest-growing addictions for young people (Richardson, 2008, p.1).” Consequences of gambling are overlooked because of the media’s positive, harmless portrayal. Gambling addiction, like any other, is a serious matter, especially when it is developed at