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.