60 Minutes The Big Gamble: Sports Betting | 60 Minutes: A Second Look
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Dec 3, 2024 Larry North, son of the compulsive gambler featured in classic segments, shares his personal journey with gambling addiction. He discusses the dark legacy of his father's addiction and its impact on their family. The dialogue examines how sports betting has evolved from a taboo to a mainstream activity, particularly among younger generations, fueled by technology. North emphasizes the critical need for awareness and regulation in the gambling industry to address addiction, showcasing the ongoing struggle faced by many families.
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The Story of Irving North
- Irving North, a compulsive gambler, bet half a million dollars in ten months and sold his furniture to fund his habit.
- He involved his son, Larry, in his gambling activities, exposing him to bookmakers and loan sharks.
Irving North's Relapse
- Ten years after the initial report, Irving North was found to have spent six years in prison for gambling-related crimes.
- Despite claiming to seek help, he continued gambling and saw it as a thrill.
Gambling as a Psychiatric Illness
- Compulsive gambling was officially recognized as a psychiatric illness in the 1980s, leading to new treatment programs.
- Dr. Robert Custer, a pioneer in the field, developed the first treatment program for gamblers in 1972.