Problem gambling is an important concern in society today. Many adults are developing unhealthy gambling habits and politicians and lawmakers are working on ways to reduce the rates of problem gambling across the country. One issue that has been overlooked, however, is youth problem gambling, a growing issue affecting an increasing number of Australians. A recent research report, Measurement of Prevalence of Youth Problem Gambling, takes a look at this developing phenomenon.
The study examined a sample of students in the years 8 through 12 in school, following up with them at two year intervals of their lives. The total age range of participants was 13 to 24 over the course of time that the research project had been conducted.
According to the study, lifetime involvement in gambling ranged from 20% to 99% while problematic gambling rates ranged from 0.9% to 11.2%. The report also cited findings from other studies on the topic, finding that the average rate of problem gambling among adolescents is about 3%. As gambling is illegal for anyone under the age of 18, these numbers are alarming.
There are several potential reasons why problem gambling has become such a big problem among younger communities in the country. While access to games becomes more available, with an increase of poker machines and online gambling websites, it is still important to understand why youth are compelled to take part in gambling activities at such a young age. There are plenty of social factors that affect young people’s decisions to take part in gambling activities.
Recently, social networking sites have caused a greater focus on gambling activities. Social games like Zynga Poker appeal to players of all ages, encouraging younger individuals to take part in gambling activities. The popularity of this particular application has led to the creation of other all-ages, free-play casino games on social networking sites. Although players are not required to spend any money, players are taught from a young age that gambling is a recommended leisure activity.
Additionally, the rise of popularity for professional poker seems to glorify the activity. With poker players like Phil Ivey and Daniel Negreanu being gaining the same fame and attention as athletes, young people are tempted to believe that playing poker and taking parts in other forms of gambling can be a suitable way to make a living.
In Australia, there is still a great deal of work that needs to be done in terms of address problem gambling among youth. More research is needed on the topic before initiatives to fight underage gambling can be employed.
To read the full report, click here.
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