Lesson 1: Gambling–What Is It? What Are the Risks?

• Define “gambling.”

• Recognize that winning at most gambling games depends on chance.
• Examine the risks associated with gambling.
• Identify who makes money on gambling activities.
• Identify the laws and legal issues related to gambling.

Lesson 2: It’s Not Worth the Risk

• Identify the reasons some adults and teens choose to gamble.

• Describe different types of gamblers.
• Examine the negative consequences of problem and compulsive gambling.
• Identify the characteristics of problem teen gamblers (optional activity).
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Lesson 3: Watch for the Signs–Get Help!

• Recognize the warning signs of problem and compulsive gambling.

• Assess their own behavior related to gambling.
• Identify where and how to get help for individuals who experience negative               consequences due to gambling.
• Apply what they have learned to show concern for others using hypothetical situations.
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Lesson 4: Trickery and Manipulation

• Identify the influences that encourage gambling.

• Analyze the media messages related to gambling.
• Examine how gambling promoters entice individuals to begin or continue to gamble.
• Recognize the use of refusal skills as one way to avoid becoming involved with gambling.
• Practice using refusal skills to avoid gambling.
• Recognize the relationship between gambling and other risk behaviors.
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Lesson 5: Spreading the Word

• Create an awareness campaign to inform peers about the dangers of gambling.

• Apply what they have learned to compose a statement reflecting their commitment to avoid illegal gambling.
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