Whether it’s the anticipation of a substantial cash reward or the pure enjoyment of the company of good friends, poker has become an increasingly fashionable activity among students here at Binghamton University, as well as other colleges across the nation. It may seem unproblematic for one to engage in an innocent game once in a while, but when does occasional participation cross the obscure line to unhealthy addiction?

According to the National Council on Problem Gambling, the age group with the highest rates of gambling addictions is 18 to 24, placing college students comfortably into that bracket.

To further dissect this matter, it is crucial that we shed light on what may indicate an addiction of this nature. An addiction is simply a compulsive physiological or psychological need for a habit-forming substance or activity. Negative consequences will in turn occur and continue to negatively affect the individual in his or her everyday life.

The U.S. House of Representatives and Senate have made strides in recent years to address what they consider a ‘major crisis in higher education’ gambling among college students. It seems unreal that there actually exists a group of students who are willing to risk losing their hard-earned money, however, they exist in every dorm and in every community on campus. Poker and gambling may seem like a trivial addiction compared to that of substance abuse, however, it proves to be just as dangerous in the long-run. It has been established that those activities involving gambling increases the development of other detrimental habits, chiefly casual drinking and smoking, both of which are hazardous to one’s physical health.

Not only is poker a dangerous habit that can turn into a compulsive disorder, but it is also deemed ‘illegal’ under certain definitions in the New York State Constitution.

For poker to be legally played on our college campus, it would have to be proved that it is a game of skill and not a game of chance, which would therefore not be considered gambling. It also becomes ‘illegal’ when the organization or individual sponsoring the event or tournament profits financially from the game.

College-in-the-Woods’ ‘Casino in the Woods’ stands as an exception to the rule because it is a charity event run by a non-profit organization.

Not only is poker on campuses earning a negative reputation, but online poker as well is becoming just as much of an obsession. Just as dangerous and addicting, it substitutes as a convenient alternative to organizing gatherings involving interested students.

Individuals undoubtedly begin to develop excuses when struggling with an addiction to poker or other gambling issues. Whether it be their dire need for money or just entertainment, my advice would be to get a job so that you deserve what you earn, or just join a club if you want to have some fun. Poker isn’t the magic ticket out of your financial problems ‘ it’s only the beginning of something more serious.