Access to gambling has significantly increased over the recent years, with online gambling being a primary contributor to its expansion. Globally, there are approximately 6.84 billion smartphones worldwide, accounting for 85% of the global population. In the United States, over 90% of those ages 14-18 have smartphones.

With easier access to gambling through smartphones, youths are more susceptible to begin participating in sports betting and other forms of gambling. What’s more, one of the two predictors for developing a gambling disorder is starting gambling at a young age.

It is vital to know what forms of gambling adolescents are exposed to, to teach them alternate forms of gambling, and to help them practice responsible gambling through awareness and implementing safeguards.

Below are some gambling statistics to know.

At least one form of legalized gambling is accessible in 48 states and Washington, D.C.

Most individuals who engage in gambling do not experience harm. However, some individuals who gamble will end up gambling at a problematic rate or have a gambling disorder diagnosis. The worldwide adult prevalence rate for moderate-risk gamblers is 2.43%, and for problem gamblers, 1.29%.

New Forms of Gambling in Youth

New forms of gambling have recently emerged, expanding the popularity and accessibility of gambling to younger populations. With the expansion of internet and mobile gaming also comes the increased marketing of loot boxes towards young individuals, exposing them to behaviors linked to gambling that may have a monetary value tied to the video game.
Popular video games include:

• Counter Strike 2
• Apex Legends
• FIFA
• And many others

These video games include loot boxes that are purchased using real currency. These loot boxes contain a mystery item of a particular rarity. The rarer the item, the lower the probability of obtaining it.

Gambling Among College Students

Gambling has become an increasingly popular activity for college students. Reports show that 54% of college students gambled while in college. Gambling harms among college students may be higher compared to other adults and may include any of the following:

• Failing grades
• Psychological distress
• Unmanageable debt
• Using student loans or financial aid to gamble

The Rise of Sports Betting

Sports betting has expanded significantly in the past five years after the landmark 2018 Supreme Court verdict Murphy v. National Collegiate Athletic Association. Following this decision came the legalization of sports betting, which now expands to 35 states, as well as Washington, D.C.
Individuals have easy access to sports betting through mobile apps such as:

• FanDuel
• BetMGM
• DraftKings
• Caesars Sportsbook
• And many others

Among these apps are various wagering methods, including prop bets, parlay bets, live bets, and many others.

Social Media Influence on Youth Gambling

Social media has become a major part of daily life for many young people, serving as a primary source of entertainment, communication, and information. However, it has also become a significant contributor to the rise in youth gambling. Platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube are increasingly being used by gambling companies to promote their services, often in subtle or disguised ways that appeal directly to younger audiences.

Targeted Advertising and Promotions

One of the most concerning aspects of social media’s influence on youth gambling is the targeted advertising. Algorithms used by platforms like Facebook and Instagram can track user behavior, allowing gambling companies to direct advertisements to those most likely to engage with their content—often young people who show interest in sports, gaming, or similar activities. These ads often depict gambling as an exciting, easy way to make money, omitting the potential risks and losses involved.

Additionally, social media platforms are filled with influencer promotions. Influencers with large followings, many of whom are young themselves, are often paid to promote gambling apps, betting websites, or casino games. Their endorsements can make gambling seem glamorous and trendy, further enticing their young followers to try it out.

Normalization of Gambling Through Content

Beyond direct advertising, gambling is frequently normalized through user-generated content on social media. For example, videos of people winning large sums of money on betting apps, livestreams of online poker games, or even casual mentions of placing bets can desensitize young viewers to the dangers of gambling. The repetitive exposure to gambling related content can create a perception that gambling is a common, acceptable, and even desirable activity among peers.

Psychological Impact on Youth

The psychological impact of social media on youth gambling is profound. Young people are highly impressionable and are often driven by a desire for social acceptance and approval. The portrayal of gambling as fun, easy, and profitable on social media can lead to unrealistic expectations and a lack of awareness about the potential consequences. The instant gratification offered by gambling apps, combined with the validation received from likes and comments on social media, can create a powerful and potentially addictive feedback loop.

Parental Guidance and Monitoring: Defense Against Youth Gambling

As gambling becomes increasingly accessible to young people through online platforms and mobile apps, the role of parents and guardians in protecting their children from potential risks has never been more critical. While technology has brought many benefits, it has also introduced new challenges that require proactive measures from families to ensure the well-being of their children.

Understanding the Risks

Parents and guardians must first understand the various forms of gambling that young people may encounter. These can range from traditional sports betting and online poker to more loot boxes in video games or betting on esports. Recognizing these activities as potential gateways to gambling addiction is crucial in preventing early exposure.

Youth are particularly vulnerable to the allure of gambling due to their developmental stage. The adolescent brain is still maturing, particularly in areas related to decision-making and impulse control. This makes young people more susceptible to the immediate rewards offered by gambling, such as the thrill of a win, without fully comprehending the long-term consequences.

Open Communication

One of the most effective strategies parents can implement is maintaining open and honest communication with their children about gambling. This involves more than just warning them about the dangers; it means fostering an environment where children feel comfortable discussing their online experiences. By having regular conversations about the risks associated with gambling, parents can demystify the activity and reduce its appeal.

Parents should also be mindful of their own attitudes toward gambling. Modeling responsible behavior, such as avoiding gambling in front of children or discussing the realities of gambling losses, can have a significant impact on how young people perceive gambling.

Parental Controls

In addition to open communication, technological tools can be invaluable in preventing youth gambling. Many devices and platforms offer parental controls that allow parents to restrict access to gambling websites and apps. By setting up these controls, parents can create a safer online environment for their children, reducing the likelihood of accidental or intentional exposure to gambling content.

Parents can also monitor their children’s online activities through app usage reports, browsing history, and social media interactions. While it’s important to respect a child’s privacy, knowing which apps they use and understanding their online behavior can help parents identify potential risks early on.

Setting Boundaries and Encouraging Healthy Alternatives

Establishing clear boundaries around screen time and online activities is another crucial aspect of parental guidance. Setting limits on how much time children can spend on their devices, particularly during unsupervised hours, can reduce their chances of encountering gambling content. Parents should also encourage participation in offline activities, such as sports, hobbies, and social events, which can provide healthy outlets for energy and curiosity.

Recognizing Warning Signs

Despite the best efforts, some children may still be exposed to gambling. It’s essential for parents to be vigilant and recognize the warning signs of gambling involvement. These may include secretive behavior, a sudden interest in sports betting, unexplained expenses, or a noticeable preoccupation with money. If any of these signs are present, it’s important to address the issue calmly and seek professional help if necessary.

Empowering Parents to Protect Their Children

In an era where online gambling is just a few clicks away, parental guidance and monitoring are essential defenses against the risks facing today’s youth. By staying informed, maintaining open communication, implementing controls, and fostering healthy alternatives, parents can significantly reduce the likelihood of their children developing gambling-related problems. 

Through proactive involvement, parents can help their children navigate the digital world safely, ensuring that gambling does not become a harmful part of their lives.