Types of Gambling
You might be surprised by what activities are considered gambling. Slots and blackjack at a casino are obvious examples. Poker in a friend’s basement and betting on basketball tournament brackets are other forms. Even scratch-off tickets from a gas station or betting on a free-throw contest at school are gambling. Just because you can’t legally gamble in Minnesota before you are 18 years old doesn’t mean there aren’t still plenty of chances to do so. Any time you risk something of value in order to potentially gain something from an event whose outcome is unknown, you are gambling.

Why Gamble?
People gamble for many reasons. Some do so to be entertained, others to alleviate boredom. Some go to a casino to spend time with friends while others play cards hoping to win money. Some buy lottery tickets for the weekly excitement, others want to become a millionaire. Take a look at the section on The Business of Gambling to find out which of these make sense.