Did you know that age actually plays a significant role in problem gambling? According to a study performed by AKJournals, individuals aged 65 and older are less likely to develop gambling issues. Conversely, studies, including those by The Responsible Gambling Council, highlight that between the ages of 18 and 24, the brain is still developing. This implies that decision-making abilities and impulse control are not yet fully matured.
Young adults are thus particularly vulnerable to developing problems or pathological gambling behaviours. That is why this week's AskGamblers' Education Corner will have all eyes on teenagers and young adults.
Understanding the Developing Brain
We have learned from the Huberman Lab that the brain of a young adult is still undergoing significant development, particularly in the prefrontal cortex, which governs decision-making and impulse control. There may be scientific debate about the exact age at which the brain reaches full maturity. However, the fact is that teenagers and young adults are still in the critical stages of development.
Meanwhile, the limbic system, which drives emotions and rewards, is highly active during this period. This imbalance makes young adults more susceptible to impulsive decisions, such as gambling.
The intermittent rewards from gambling stimulate dopamine release in the brain. Stimuli are in the form of monetary winnings, virtual prizes, or the thrill of a near-miss. Over time, this creates a cycle of craving and dependency.
On the bright side, many real-life stories show that people can rewire their brains to change habits. What it requires, however, is consistent effort, which doesn’t happen overnight.
The Risks of Gambling for Young Adults
The thrill of novelty and independence often overshadows the long-term consequences of actions. This makes young adults more prone to engaging in reckless behaviours such as gambling.
Gambling, whether through online platforms, video games, or social environments, can become a dangerous outlet for this thrill-seeking behaviour.
The still-developing brains of young adults are particularly susceptible to falling into gambling traps that may lead to lifelong consequences.
But when does the problem begin? What conditions set the stage for gambling to take hold, and at what age does this risk emerge? Let’s explore the most influential factors that contribute to the development of problematic gambling behaviour.
Social Influence
According to a study conducted by PMC PubMed Central, social pressure significantly contributes to the rise of gambling among young adults. Peer influence and online advertising are both major factors. Individuals in this age group often seek validation and acceptance from their friends. Social media plays a pivotal role by glorifying glamorous lifestyles, showcasing idealised and curated versions of reality.
Influencers, celebrities, and friends frequently post about luxury items, extravagant vacations, and success stories. That way, they create an illusion of effortless achievement.
Constant exposure can lead impressionable young adults to equate happiness and self-worth with material success and wealth. This results in unrealistic expectations and a desire to emulate such lifestyles.
Creating a false perception of success entices young adults to gamble in the hopes of achieving similar outcomes.
Ethnic and Economic Triggers
Economic factors, such as the pressure to earn money quickly, make the issue worse. The 2024 UK Gambling Commission’s report on young people and their gambling behaviour indicates that most teens play because they find it fun. Some young people, however, view gambling as a shortcut to financial success.
Capitalist society, in particular, glorifies wealth and status. We have to be aware that this can create a dangerous cycle of chasing winnings and accumulating losses.
An interesting study conducted by AIFS demonstrated that individuals of minority groups reported they started to gamble at a younger age than individuals from the general population. The reasons are economic disparities, cultural norms, social isolation, targeted marketing, and limited access to resources. Developed countries may face unique challenges influencing gambling behaviour.
The Deceitful Influence of Video Game Tournaments
Seemingly harmless video game tournaments can subtly manipulate young minds into gambling behaviours. Many games integrate features such as loot boxes, and players spend real money for a chance to win virtual rewards.
These mechanics mimic traditional gambling, as they rely on chance and offer a dopamine-driven reward system.
Some video games even host tournaments where participants bet skins (in-game items) or money, further blurring the line between gaming and gambling.
Why Parents Are Often Unaware
Many parents don't know about their teenagers’ gambling habits. The signs are not undetectable, but not enough attention is being paid. A study conducted by the PEW Research Center showed that the demands of modern life often leave parents too busy, distracted, or disconnected. Often they do not notice what’s happening. Time spent on screens or money fixation is commonly dismissed as typical teenage behaviour or harmless gaming.
Parents might think the kids are having fun. They do not realise that their child’s gaming could involve real money or lead to destructive habits later. Digital platforms further enable secrecy. Teens can discreetly access gambling apps, sites, or online betting forums.
The stigma around gambling compounds the problem because teens are unlikely to open up to parents about their activities.
Detecting Unusual Behaviour in Teens
Parents play a crucial role in identifying early signs of gambling behaviour in their teenagers.
- Being attentive to sudden changes in mood and behaviour, such as irritability, secrecy, or withdrawal from family activities.
- Unexplained financial issues, such as money going missing or frequent requests for cash, can also be red flags.
- Keeping an eye on their online activity. Particularly time spent on platforms with loot boxes, betting features, or gambling-like mechanics.
- If the teen becomes fixated on winning or starts using gambling terminology, it may be a sign to investigate further.
- Open and non-judgmental conversations. Creating an environment where teens feel comfortable sharing can help uncover issues early.
Educating Parents and Teens
For nearly two decades, AskGamblers experts have reviewed more than 3,300 licensed online casinos. Over the years, we have noticed that most operators clearly state that gambling is forbidden for underaged players. However, few incorporate tools that would prevent minors from registering and playing.
Even with verification checks in place, most players are allowed to deposit, play, and lose money before they have been verified.
Too many online casinos acquire verification only before a withdrawal request. Lack of accountability shifts the responsibility onto the community to cultivate new trends.
Parents play an active role in understanding the games their children play and the platforms they frequent. What empowers parents to spot red flags early on is gaining insight into gambling-like features. Easing the pressure to chase endless wealth and constant excitement can help.
AskGamblers’ Education Corner aims to fight the traps that draw young people into gambling through educating, raising awareness and highlighting responsible gambling. To stand a chance against the alerting trends is to know about the forms and risks of gambling. Also we need to motivate youngsters with other activities. Some which are not connected to the rat race of making money and winning competitions.
Prevalence of gambling among teenagers remains. The goal is to ensure they stay away from online casinos. The first step is to create a safer, more informed group of individuals, young and older.
Get the truth. Then play.
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