Gambling is becoming more popular, often highlighted in media and private discussions. Platforms like HellSpin promote responsible gaming. They are crucial for addressing early exposure to gambling. Studies show that 0.2% to 12.3% of young people might have a gambling problem. This is the same rate as adults.
Early gambling can harm teenagers. It can cause poor academic performance and dropping out of school. It can lead to financial troubles, depression, and suicidal thoughts. It can also cause low self-esteem and hurt social relationships. And it can lead to substance abuse. Most adults with gambling problems say that gambling in youth was a significant factor. This suggests that efforts like those by HellSpin are vital. They encourage responsible play and can reduce teen gambling. This, in turn, should cut future adult addiction rates.
The Aim
This paper explores the causes of gambling addiction in adolescents. It focuses on risk factors and ways to prevent addiction. It shows the value of strong family support. It also shows the value of a positive school environment. These things protect young adults from gambling addiction.
The Research Method
We conducted a review study. It looks at gambling addiction among young people. It covers its risks, protective factors, and how to prevent it. We used data from many studies and literature. They helped us find critical aspects of this addiction in teenagers.
The Research Results
Studies have identified several risk factors for gambling addiction among young people, including:
- Young men are more likely to gamble and have more gambling problems than women.
- Both genders are linked to problem gambling due to poor academic performance.
- Positive attitudes towards gambling from family or friends can increase risk.
- Substance and alcohol abuse.
- Weak connections with parents and peers.
Protective factors that help prevent gambling issues include:
- Strong family relationships.
- Participation in extracurricular activities.
- Preferring offline to online socializing.
The main goal of gambling prevention is to reduce the risk of addiction and its consequences. This involves changing the social environment through education, skill building, and policy changes. Gambling ads are widespread. The games are accessible. So, it’s crucial to encourage abstinence from gambling until the legal age. This will cut early exposure.
The Studies
Two studies shed light on gambling addiction among young people. A 2015 study in Korea had 14,011 students aged 13-17. It found that boys who drop out of school. They have friends who gamble. This increases their risk of developing a gambling problem. In Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, a study found that boys aged 12-21 lack home support. They face a high risk of gambling. This risk is high. It is worse when they also struggle with addictions, such as alcohol or drugs.
Final Thoughts
Young men are more prone to gambling addiction. They often use alcohol or drugs, feel depressed, or do in school. Yet, there are protective factors that can help prevent this issue. These include good parenting, a higher income, friends, and clubs.
Many teenagers gamble. It’s widespread and has many harmful effects. So, we must focus on prevention. We can install programs to prevent gambling. They can be in schools and at home. They will help protect young people from gambling’s risks.
