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Prevention Action Alliance
Holiday Responsible Gifting
The following Our Thoughts was written by Derek Longmeier, the
executive director of Problem Gambling Network of Ohio. Founded in
2010, PGNO is working toward building a network of support for those
impacted by gambling through collaboration, education and research.
Learn more about PGNO at pgnohio.org.
The holiday season is upon us and with it comes the necessity to find
the perfect gift. For some, that means purchasing lottery scratch-off
tickets and including them in a greeting card or as stocking stuffers.
However, that approach isn’t as harmless as it might seem.
Problem Gambling Network of Ohio (PGNO) asks you to join us in
supporting the Holiday Responsible Gambling Campaign. The campaign, now
in its 13th year, was developed by the National Council on Problem
Gambling and the International Centre for Youth Gambling Problems and
High-Risk Behaviors at McGill University.
It reminds parents and others to take the time to select meaningful
holiday gifts and stocking stuffers for kids instead of buying
unsuitable, quick-fix gifts like lottery scratch-off tickets or other
items not intended for children which have the potential to cause harm.
Here are some important reminders:
Lottery products, even scratch-off tickets, are forms of gambling and may result in a gambling problem
An early 'big win,' which to youth doesn't have to be a large sum, is a
risk-factor for developing a gambling problem later in life
The earlier a young person participates in gambling, the higher the likelihood that he/she will develop a gambling problem
Anyone under 18 cannot redeem a winning ticket
Early exposure to gambling, whether or not the youth wins, increases the likelihood of a gambling disorder as an adult
Tips for Gifters—if you need the perfect gift for youth, consider
speaking to the young person or their parents about what would be of
interest and an appropriate gift.
Even if you’re gifting lottery products to someone who is old enough to
play, there are other questions to consider: Would the individual find
joy in playing? Do they have a history of a gambling problem? Would
they be okay with receiving a losing ticket? What if they won?
Tips for Parents—know the impact of youth gambling and have
conversations with your child about your expectations. If someone gifts
a gambling product to your young person, whether scratch-off tickets or
other gambling elements, like poker chips, let them know that gambling
is an adult activity and that your child will not be able to accept the
gift.
”The thought that counts” isn’t just a saying for this time of year,
but also an important message to make sure that your gifting keeps your
loved ones safe and prosperous for years to come. For additional
information about the Holiday Responsible Gambling Campaign, visit
PGNOhio.org.
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