Big risk for youth July 21, 2009 Video games can lead to more
than just sore thumbs for some kids. Studies show teenagers can
be attracted to video lottery terminals (VLTs) for the same
reasons they're attracted to video games - and that concerns
provincial experts on problem gambling. "The flashing lights,
clanging bells and excitement of each appeal to youth, and the
instant payout, high action and illusion of control reinforce
continuous play," says Leely Lew, a program consultant with the
Addiction and Mental Health problem gambling unit of Alberta
Health Services. "Research indicates the more frequently youth
play video games, the more likely they are to believe their
playing skills are related to gambling success. "Combine that
with increased exposure to gambling through the media and online
poker websites and we are seeing more youth exploring gambling
opportunities." According to the most recent Alberta Youth
Experience Survey, 62.6 per cent all students surveyed reported
participating in gambling act