Age-Appropriate Gifts are Better Options for the Holidays and other Occasions
The Oklahoma Association on Problem Gambling and Gaming announced its support today for the 2021 Gift Responsibly Campaign, which raises awareness about the risks associated with adults giving lottery tickets to children as gifts during the holidays.
Underage lottery play can make children more susceptible to problem gambling as they grow older. However, adults might be tempted to purchase lottery tickets for children out of convenience or when they struggle to think of other options. Age-appropriate suggestions for last minute gifts include
- art supplies
- board games
- candy or snacks
- DVDs
- gift cards or money
- homemade goodies
- journals
- picture or chapter books
- puzzles
- quality time with a favorite activity
- stuffed animals
“OAPGG is committed to raising awareness about the risks associated with giving lottery products as gifts to minors during the holiday season—or any time of the year,” said Wiley Harwell, Executive Director for OAPGG. “Research shows that early exposure to gambling can lead to future problem gambling and other risky behaviors. Our message is a simple one: lottery tickets are appropriate gits only for adults.”
Many young people report their first gambling experience occurs around 9–11 years of age, and more and more youth are exposed to gambling at even younger ages and are tempted by the pressures to participate. Youth problem gambling is a growing public health concern.
The Gift Responsibly Campaign is organized by the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) and the International Center for Youth Gambling Problems and High-Risk Behaviors at McGill University. It is endorsed by the World Lottery Association (WLA) and the North American Association of State and Provincial Lotteries (NASPL).
“We are very appreciative of OAPGG’s efforts to educate adults and retailers about the potential consequences associated with underage lottery play,” said NCPG Executive Director Keith Whyte. “The evidence clearly shows that exposure to gambling as a youth increases the probability of gambling problems later in life. Regardless of what time of year it is, adults should find gift options for children other than lottery tickets.”
About the Oklahoma Association on Problem Gambling and Gaming
OAPGG works to increase the general public’s awareness of problem and compulsive gambling, enhance the availability and quality of treatment services for problem gamblers and their families, and ensure the quality of education and prevention programs for all citizens of Oklahoma. OAPCG is funded in part by the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health & Substance Abuse Services (ODMHSAS).
About the National Council on Problem Gambling
NCPG is the national advocate for people and families affected by problem gambling. NCPG is neutral on legalized gambling and works with all stakeholders to promote responsible gambling. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call or text the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700 or visit www.ncpgambling.org/chat for confidential help.
About International Center for Youth Gambling Problems and High-Risk Behaviors at McGill University
For over 20 years, the International Center for Youth Gambling Problems and High-Risk Behaviors at McGill University has been at the forefront of leading edge research aimed at identifying and understanding the critical factors related to youth gambling issues.