gaming

Youth gambling: the basics

The YMCA Youth Gambling Awareness Program (YGAP) defines gambling as risking something of value when you don’t know if you will win or lose. This definition includes traditional forms of gambling such as casino games, but also includes non-traditional forms of gambling that are popular with youth today.

Youth Gambling

Although they may not be of legal age to enter a casino, youth may be already engaging in gambling behavior to some degree, even from a young age — whether that’s making a bet with a rare Pokémon card or playing a claw machine game to win a prize. Gambling at any age has risks associated with it and the potential to cause harm. Some video games have elements of betting or gambling, even in skill-based games. Loot boxes are an example which typically offer players a chance to win prizes ranging in value.

The Youth Gambling Awareness Program (YGAP) will be hosting a free virtual webinar on youth gaming and gambling with the YMCA of Greater Toronto. Below is a description of the webinar:

Are video games like Candy Crush gambling? How do video games promote gambling among youth? What is a Freemium Model game?

Raschkowan Lecture Series: Gambling in the Digital Age

Presenter: Dr. Daniel King

Talk Title: Future Directions in Gaming Disorder Research

Abstract

Department of Psychology

University of Calgary

EXPERIENCED CLINICIANS NEEDED FOR

RESEARCH IN VIDEO GAME ADDICTION

Department of Psychology

University of Calgary

EXPERIENCED CLINICIANS NEEDEDFOR

RESEARCH IN VIDEO GAME ADDICTION

Raschkowan Lecture Series: Gambling in the Digital Age

Presenter: Dr. Heather Wardle

Talk Title: Games without frontiers? Exploring gambling and gaming behaviours among youth

Abstract

Technology has become a significant tool in our day-to-day lives – and it’s constantly evolving. Children are being introduced to technology at younger ages than ever before and have become incredibly versatile when it comes to navigating it. From growing issues like cyberbullying, internet safety, and sharing information online, today’s families are faced with a unique set of challenges when it comes to managing technology use.

Raschkowan Lecture Series: Gambling in the Digital Age

Presenter: Dr. Heather Wardle

Talk Title: Games without frontiers? Exploring gambling and gaming behaviours among youth

Abstract

Has COVID-19 effected a youth’s gambling behavior? Are youth using video games differently during the pandemic? Given current restrictions how does a program effectively discuss gambling awareness with youth?

Are video games like Candy Crush gambling?

How do video games promote gambling among youth? What is a Freemium Model game?

All these questions and more will be discussed in this free webinar being conducted by the YMCA of Greater Toronto's Youth Gambling Awareness Program.

Game-Bling is an interactive webinar designed for service providers and parents of youth, during which we will explore the dangers of the blurred lines between gaming and gambling and provide tools to understand and support youth.

This webinar is part 2 of 3 in the Gambling, Gaming and Technology Use 2022 series of standalone yet interconnected webinars titled, ‘The Impacts of Digital Technologies on Mental Health and Addictions’. This webinar will highlight new and ongoing research on online gambling behaviours and associations with mental health and substance use indicators, with added attention to the role of financial motivations and concerns.

Game-Bling- When Gaming meets Gambling: 1-hour interactive webinar. Explores the blurred lines between gaming & gambling and the impact of technology on the gambling market. Includes discussions on gambling awareness, how gambling is present in video and social media games, and harm reduction strategies. perfect for those who work with youth or young people and are looking to better understand gaming and gambling.

Do the words we use matter? Where does stigma come from? How do we break the cycle?

If you’ve ever wondered the answer to any of these questions, then look no further because the YMCA’s Youth Gambling Awareness Program (YGAP) has you covered!

Has COVID-19 effected a youth’s gambling behavior? Are youth using video games differently during the pandemic? Given current restrictions how does a program effectively discuss gambling awareness with youth?

Social Pressures and Substance Use Awareness for Tweens (Ages 11-13 only)

Join us for a fun interactive game on navigating social pressures and substance use.

Topics:
• Peer pressure
• How to make healthy choices
• How to say no
• Peer pressure
• Knowing your reactions when under peer pressure

This session is for tweens only: aged 11-13

Register today:

Many of you are familiar with my son's story of gaming addiction, as told by me in my speaking, webinars, and my books. Podcaster and recovered gambling addict, Brian Hatch recently interviewed my son, Jake, on his own, so he could share his journey through gaming addiction and recovery. Jake discusses what led him down the rabbit hole, how he struggled to overcome his compulsion, the support he received, and how he now manages his life, as well as his relationship with the internet, as a gaming sober young man.