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Abstract
This study examines gambling patterns among rural, African American adolescents, ages 14-17, who are believed to be at especially high risk for problem gambling outcomes. Problem gambling is a rising concern among adolescent populations; youth gamble more frequently relative to adults, and those who gamble are more susceptible than adults to maladaptive outcomes. Being part of a minority or being a low SES individual has been shown to further exacerbate gambling problems, despite lower rates of gambling frequency. This minority sample presents with a disproportionate rate of poverty and is expected to demonstrate a high rate of gambling problems. Prevalence rates of gambling and gambling-related problems are documented; gender differences and risk factors are explored. Gambling problems are found to be differentially associated with skill-based games as opposed to luck-based games. Substance use is a predictor of gambling frequency, and gambling frequency is a predictor of gambling problems.