Signs and Symptoms of Adolescent Problem Gambling
- Excessive need for money
- Money/possessions missing
- Skipping school / classes
- Loss of interest in activities
- Isolation
- Overly upset at outcome of game
- Preoccupation with sporting events
- Academic problems
- Large amounts of unexplained money
- Use of betting jargon
- Change in friends
- Interest in teams with no allegiance
- 900 phone numbers (tip line)
- Irritable
- Argumentative
- Online poker sites
- Lying
Early Signs of Risk Behavior
- Aggressive behavior
- Lack of self-control
- Difficult temperament
- Inability to get along with other children
Characteristics of Adolescent Problem Gamblers
- Parents who gamble
- Peers who gamble
- Low self-esteem
- High risk behaviors
- Family problems
- Escape from reality
- Poor coping skills
- Poor decision making skills
- Problems at school – academic or behavior