Gambling is often seen as a fun and exciting activity for many people, but it’s important to remember that it’s not suitable for everyone, especially young teenagers. When underage people get involved in gambling, it can lead to serious problems that affect their lives in many negative ways.
One of the biggest issues with underage gambling is the risk of addiction. Teenagers are at a stage in their lives where their brains are still developing. This means they are more susceptible to developing addictive behaviors. Gambling can quickly become a habit, where a teenager feels the need to keep placing bets or playing games of chance, even when it’s causing harm to themselves and their relationships. This is similar to how people can become addicted to video games or social media, but with gambling, the stakes can be much higher.
“People my age just keep losing money because they just want to keep betting. If they miss a parlay by one leg, they’re so excited or mad that they were close to making money so then, they just want to keep placing more and more bets until they make the money, but if they don’t even make the money, then they just wasted tons of money to put in bets.” Evan Centrone, a sophomore.
Another downside of underage gambling is financial troubles. Unlike adults, most teenagers don’t have a steady income. They might use their allowance or money given to them as gifts to gamble, thinking it’s an easy way to make more money. However, gambling is designed to favor the house, which means that more often than not, people end up losing money. This can lead to a cycle of debt and borrowing, creating stress and worry for young people. They may also feel pressured to steal or lie to family members to cover up their gambling habits.
Underage gambling can also affect a teenager’s academic and social life. When a teen is focused on or obsessed with gambling, it can lead to spending less time studying or doing homework. Their grades may suffer as a result, affecting their future opportunities. In addition, the stress and anxiety that come with gambling losses and financial issues can lead to problems with friends and family. Gambling can cause teenagers to become secretive and isolated, pushing away the people who care about them.
“It can be bad because it can possibly be the beginning of a bad habit when it’s time for someone to get their own money,” said Jayce Doctor, a sophomore.
To add on, Finally, underage gambling is illegal in many places. Breaking the law can have serious consequences, such as fines, community service, or even juvenile detention. Additionally, a record of illegal activity can impact a person’s ability to get a job or apply to colleges in the future.
In conclusion, underage gambling is not a good idea for young teenagers. It can lead to addiction, financial problems, and difficulties in social and academic areas of life. It’s important for teenagers to find healthier ways to have fun and manage stress, such as playing sports, spending time with friends, or pursuing hobbies. If a teenager or their family thinks they might have a gambling problem, it’s important to seek help from a professional who can provide support and guidance. Keeping clear of gambling is key to ensuring a bright and successful future.
