Internet gambling among youth

The Internet represents a relatively new phenomenon, offering players a convenient, easily accessible, and relatively anonymous gambling venue. This study explored Internet gambling in a sample of youth aged 12 to 24 years. Students in high school, CEGEP, and university were asked to report on their involvement in gambling activities both on-line and off-line. In the past 12 months, 4.6% of participants had gambled on the Internet, with higher rates among males (5.8%) compared to females (2.3%). As well, 36.6% of youth reported that in the past 12 months they had gambled on Internet 'practice' gambling sites where no money was required to play. Concerns about the possible effect of Internet gambling on youth are raised and possible future directions for research are explored