The New York Gaming Commission’s Division of Lottery is once again advising adults to not gift lottery tickets to children this holiday season.
“Many times, a child’s first exposure to gambling comes in the form of a gifted lottery ticket from a well-meaning adult who may be unaware of the associated risks,” said Gaming Commission Chair Brian O’Dwyer. “We encourage age-appropriate gifts this holiday season and throughout the year and thank our partners across the country for helping to spread the message.”
The reminder is part of the national Gift Responsibly campaign, created by the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) and the International Center for Youth Gambling Problems and High-Risk Behaviors at McGill University to raise public awareness about the risks associated with youth gambling.
According to the NCPG, youth problem gambling is a growing concern:
• Many young people report their first gambling experience occurs around 9-11 years of age.
• Approximately 60 percent of high-school-aged adolescents report having gambled for money during the past year.
• Ten to 14 percent of adolescents are at-risk for developing a problem with gambling.
• While male adolescents gamble more frequently than females, female adolescents are more actively involved in lottery play.
• Four to six percent of adolescents presently have a serious problem with gambling.
Visit www.PlayResponsiblyNY.com for important information, including where to get help for problem gambling, a gambling self-assessment, professional problem gambling resources, and
more.
