If you’re here, chances are that you’re a worried family member or guardian who wants to know how to prevent and combat underage gambling.
Rest assured, you don't need to be a gambling disorder expert to be able to help your child.
On this page, I'll shed light on what proven and tested methods you can employ to safeguard a loved one from it, why your child might be drawn to gambling, and what legal measures are in place to combat underage gambling.
- The Realities of Underage Gambling & Importance of Prevention
- So, Why Do Children and Teens Gamble?
- How Can I Prevent & Dissuade My Child From Gambling?
- How Can I Tell if My Child Is Gambling?
- Supporting a Young Gambler: Effective Strategies
- Legal Framework Against Underage Gambling
- Change Is Possible
Underage gambling can be seriously harmful and addictive for young minds:
- Psychological impact: like any addiction, gambling can consume a child's focus, affecting their academic and social life.
- Risk of escalation: early gambling can be a gateway to other risky behaviors, such as substance abuse.
- Financial consequences: the nuances of financial management are often lost on the young, leading to impulsive decisions and overspending
- Legal implications: a criminal record can hinder future hiring and loan opportunities.
Given the complexity of financial decision-making and the vulnerability of children and adolescents, our proactive guidance and vigilance are critical.
Early intervention is key - the sooner you pinpoint a problem, the more efficient and fast treatment is. Hence, you can prevent the escalation of gambling-related issues.
How Does Underage Gambling Take Place?
Despite legal restrictions, children and teens sometimes find ways to gamble. Unfortunately, they're more resourceful than we often realize, employing tactics like:
- Using family members' details to register and make wagers on sports betting websites and casino websites.
- Gaining entry to casinos with fake IDs.
- Accessing unregulated offshore online gambling sites with lax age checks.
- Using verified accounts of older acquaintances for online gambling.
Important
Underage gambling can have forms other than casino gaming and sports betting.
For instance, poker game nights with friends or family, where there's money involved, also fall under the category of gambling.
The Widespread Nature of Underage Gambling
Despite legal efforts to combat it, underage gambling remains a problem. Recent studies reveal concerning trends:
UK
In the United Kingdom, 26% percent of 11-17-year-olds gambled in 2023, especially via arcade gaming machines and placing bets for money between friends or family.
Europe
In Europe, 22% of 16-year-olds gambled in 2022, with the highest rates seen in Greece and Cyprus at 33%.
In 2021, alarming gambling rates were observed. For instance:
- Spain: 20.1%.
- France: 34.8%.
- Italy: 50%.
Notably, offline gambling was more common than online gambling.
Nordic Countries
Across Nordic countries, the gambling rates among 16-year-olds differ significantly. In 2022, Sweden had the lowest problem gambling rate (5.4%), while Finland had the highest overall gambling rate (28.5%).
Also, most underage gamblers preferred playing the lottery.
Canada
In Canada, about 64.5% of Canadians aged 15 or older reported gambling in 2022, raising concerns since the legal gambling age is 19.
The youth’s favorite gambling type is sports betting, which is widely advertised on television and on the internet by famous people.
The issue is a growing concern, with some states taking action. Ontario aims to combat it by banning athletes and celebrities from gambling operators' marketing campaigns.
USA
In the US, a staggering 60-80% of high school students report having gambled for money in 2023, and their preferred form of gambling is sports betting.
Understanding these alarming statistics, it becomes clear why preventing underage gambling is crucial.
Children's environment plays a huge role in why they give gambling a try. They might encounter gambling at home, on TV, in their video games, or on social media platforms.
Early Exposure to Gambling
Our first encounter with gambling usually starts very innocently - and early. Children get a taste of gambling via legal or not age-restricted activities, such as:
- Playing card games with friends or family for money.
- Making bets for money with friends or family members.
- Scratching off lottery-style scratch cards.
- Collecting themed cards found in Chipicao snacks, which come in random packs.
- Opening surprise eggs like Kinder Surprise or Kinder Joy, which contain hidden toys.
- Exploring blind bags or boxes, which are sealed containers containing random surprise toys.
- Participating in fantasy sports.
- Engaging in online auctions or bidding websites for the chance to get a rare collectible.
- Entering sweepstakes by redeeming codes from food products, such as cola bottles and snacks, for a chance to win prizes like vacations and physical objects (e.g., bicycles).
- Playing casino games on Steam.
- Engaging with arcade gaming machines such as claw grab machines.
My Personal Story
When I was in school, my parents sometimes encouraged me to select the numbers for our lottery tickets.
We would then gather around the TV to watch the lottery draw together and check how many numbers we got right and whether we won anything.
It was a fun activity that my parents saw as harmless.
For me, though, the prospect of winning was the most thrilling aspect, and I found myself daydreaming about what I would do with the prize money.
I was disappointed we did not win; I had expected to win. I did not understand how small the odds of winning were, although my parents explained it to me.
And I wanted to do it again, sure that I will win next time.
Glamorization of Gambling in Media
We are all bombarded with ads everywhere, from social media to billboards to TV.
Celebs Make It Look Cool
The majority of sports betting advertisements prominently feature well-known actors, athletes, rappers, skateboarders, and WWE wrestlers.
Essentially, these are public figures that many young people look up to. When these admired celebrities are linked with sports betting, fans might develop an interest in betting themselves.
Getting Rid of Ads
You cannot remove ads from appearing altogether, but you can adjust ad preferences and limit how often gambling ads appear.
Entertainment
Young individuals typically view gambling primarily as an enjoyable activity. Much like traditional video and board games, casino games and sports betting provide entertainment.
Also, children mimic what they see inside their homes. If they see a family member taking joy in gambling, this can spark their interest and make them perceive gambling as a positive and engaging activity.
Escapism
Childhood and adolescence come with many emotional struggles, and some people find solace in gambling.
Some young people perceive it as a means to escape their ordinary life and not think about their issues. Just like grown-ups do with their vices.
Socialization
Peer pressure and the desire for social acceptance can lead children into gambling. They might want to get accepted into the “cool kids club,” and playing the same gambling games as them could be the “entry fee.”
Additionally, they could perceive gambling as a fun activity to do with their peers. They can engage in discussions about their wagers, offer each other betting tips, and collectively visit casinos for group enjoyment.
Financial Gain
Some young people see gambling as a way to make quick cash, especially when they're too young to work.
They want their own money to buy stuff and do things they can't afford otherwise.
Statistics
Based on research conducted using data from schools in England, Scotland, and Wales, 1 in 10 children reported that a family member's gambling had contributed to covering household expenses, such as vacations, outings, or club memberships.
The Influence of Video Games
While not all video games lead to gambling habits, some encourage gambling-like behavior, especially via:
- Loot boxes, which can contain any random item from the game.
- eSports tournaments.
- Depictions of in-game gambling activities.
Loot Boxes
Online free-to-play games offer in-app purchases for real money. In most games, the offered items serve purely aesthetic purposes, without providing any in-game advantages.
The hook: Players can directly buy the item they want for a high price or purchase loot boxes for much less money, hoping to get that item. It’s essentially gambling.
Gacha games like Genshin Impact escalate this by offering loot boxes that aid game progression and increase winning chances.
Unlike real gambling, players always receive something in return when purchasing loot boxes.
The Law on Loot Boxes
Loot boxes are a form of unregulated gambling. However, only some governments outlawed loot boxes to date.
eSports
Popular online multiplayer games organize and stream eSports tournaments where teams compete. Viewers can place wagers on their favored team on betting websites.
As proven by studies, children deeply engaged in watching eSports tournaments on platforms like Twitch are more susceptible to sports betting.
CS:GO Gambling Sites
CS:GO is a hugely popular multiplayer first-person shooter game where players can buy, sell, or trade virtual items on unregulated gambling sites.
Studies showed that over 70% of CS:GO gamblers start as minors, highlighting the risk.
GTA V In-Game Gambling With Real Money
Games like GTA V, depict in-game casinos, which blur the lines between gaming and gambling.
Children can pay real money to purchase virtual currency to use in those game casinos.
In a perfect world, the government could enforce legislation that thoroughly protects children from gambling.
However, the reality is that you can't depend on schools, casinos, or others to do so.
Example
Some casinos operate in grey areas where regulators have no authority to hold them accountable.
As a relative or guardian, the responsibility falls on you to shield your child from underage gambling.
Here are some starting points:
- Openly discuss gambling, its risks, and the importance of responsible gambling with them.
- Keep tabs on your child’s gaming choices and the websites they access.
- Block their access to mature content online.
- If you are a gambler, keep your account away from their sight.
Addressing the Dangers of Peer Pressure
Empower your children to handle peer pressure through role-playing sessions focusing on essential aspects such as:
- Declining invitations to gamble.
- Maintaining their stance when peers persistently push them to participate.
- Resisting the urge to gamble for social acceptance.
Note
Emphasize the importance of choosing friends who share their values over trying to fit in with a particular group, reminding them that true friends won't pressure them into activities they are uncomfortable with.
Secure Your Gambling Account
If you gamble online, it's important to prevent your child from accessing your account:
- Use private browsing (incognito) when gambling, or clear your browser's history after each gambling session.
- Always remember to log out from your gambling account when you're done playing.
- Use strong passwords that are hard to guess for your accounts.
- If possible, enable two-factor authentication for an extra layer of security.
- Hide the casino app's icon on your phone (Android or iPhone) or tablet.
Install Parental Control Software
You can install parental control software on your child’s device to supervise and control the content they can access.
Keep in mind
Install the software on all your child's devices for full protection. If it's on just one device, they might try bypassing gambling restrictions by using another.
Depending on the app, it can allow you to:
- Receive alerts and reports on your child's activity.
- Establish daily screen time limits.
- Application time limits.
- Monitor texts and online activity for signs of issues.
- Track your child's live location.
Best Parental Control Tools
Here are some of the best software that you can use to protect your child from gambling online:
Free Trials
Most parental control software offers a free trial period, during which you can assess whether it is what you’re looking for.
No Uninstalls Allowed
Most apps have a feature preventing your child from uninstalling them.
To determine if your child is possibly involved in gambling, it's important to observe various aspects of their behavior and lifestyle.
Warning signs of harmful gambling behavior among children can include:
- Knowledge of gambling: if they're chatting about bets or seem to know a lot about how gambling works, including specific terms, like “all-in,” that can be a sign they might be gambling.
- Phone obsession during games: if they're super focused on their phone during sports matches, they might be betting on the outcome.
- Decline in school performance: a sudden lack of interest in school or falling grades can be a sign they’re distracted by something like gambling.
- Unexplained financial activity: watch them for odd spending or being cagey about where their money's going. Regularly asking for money without a good reason is another clue.
- Stealing: taking money or using family credit cards without permission can be a warning sign.
- Secrecy and lies: if they’re being evasive about online activities and whereabouts, it’s worth digging deeper.
- Loss of interest in hobbies: losing interest in activities they once enjoyed might be cause for concern.
- Pulling away from friends: are they spending less time with their usual friends? It might be a sign of trouble.
- Mood swings or sadness: noticeable mood changes, especially signs of depression, can be linked to stress from gambling.
- Missing school: frequently missing school can be a red flag, especially if it’s a new behavior.
Keep in mind
Not all children who gamble show obvious signs of gambling addiction. The list from above is a guide, not a foolproof checklist.
If you notice your child is gambling, it’s time to take action.
Dealing with the problem of underage gambling may sometimes necessitate professional intervention, but you should be the first to address the problem with the child.
Be empathetic and encourage alternative activities and responsible gaming habits.
Warning
If the child in question already has a severe gambling problem, you need to contact a professional therapist ASAP.
What You Can Do To Support Them
Begin with a gentle approach to understanding your child's perspective on gambling. Encouraging a dialogue helps them feel comfortable discussing this sensitive topic.
Key questions to start the conversation include:
- What are your thoughts on gambling?
- How did you first become aware of gambling?
- What sparked your interest in trying it?
- What feelings does gambling evoke for you?
- Which forms of gambling attract you?
- Are you aware of the odds of winning in gambling?
- How do you handle money while gambling?
- What do you know about the risks and financial impacts of gambling?
Empathy
Make it clear to them that they deserve unconditional love, no matter what.
| Don't Do This | Do This Instead | What Changes? |
| Be judgmental and make them feel guilty for playing | Actively listen to your child and respond with empathy | When children feel judged, they resist change. Creating a safe, non-judgmental space encourages them to confide in you |
| Overload them with gambling information | Provide them with resources on problem gambling for self-learning | Self-paced learning encourages exploration and understanding |
| Threaten to & confiscate their belongings | Motivate them to participate in activities they have enjoyed in the past | Threats and punishments can breed resentment and secrecy, while promoting alternative activities empowers them to make healthier choices |
| Confiscate their money | Teach saving, budgeting, and responsible spending | Helps them develop financial skills so that they can make their own informed decisions |
| Enroll them in addiction treatment without their consent (unless the situation is dire) | Encourage them to join an anonymous problem gambling chat room (e.g., GamTalk) or call a gambling helpline | Maintains their agency and empowers them to progress at their own pace |
| Attempt to control all the content they consume | Monitor the content they engage with and their screen time. Restrict access to problematic websites and games | Promotes responsible gaming and teaches self-control. Reduces exposure to gambling content and temptation |
| Ban all types of gambling activities | Suggest age-appropriate gambling activities | Establish clear rules and conditions, as well as a budget they must adhere to if they want to game. Promotes responsible gambling habits |
| Quickly switch channels or topics if you come across a gambling ad while with your child | Start discussions about the dangers of gambling. Clarify that advertisements aim to persuade individuals to spend real money, often without their well-being in mind | Builds awareness and critical thinking |
| Engage in gambling activities around them or with them | Keep gambling away from the house | Your actions matter more when you lead by example and promote a healthy lifestyle. If you endorse gambling but engage in it yourself, your message loses credibility |
Practical Alternatives
Once you grasp what aspect of gambling intrigues the child, you can introduce them to an alternative that evokes the same feelings.
For example, if they enjoy the strategy aspect of card games or sports betting, recommend strategy video games like:
- Stellaris.
- XCOM 2.
- Total War: Warhammer 3.
Such games provide strategic challenges and skill development, offering people a satisfying sense of accomplishment when their plan proves to be good.
Assessment Tests
GambleAware offers a self-assessment test that you can either take on behalf of your child or share with them, encouraging them to evaluate their own risk of developing gambling-related problems.
When Talking & Parental Tools Aren’t Enough
If the matter is going out of hand, it might be time to contact a professional. Trained professionals will guide your child towards a more healthy relationship with gambling.
Depending on what you are comfortable with and how serious the issue is, you have various options:
- Discussions with licensed therapists.
- Family therapy sessions with licensed therapists.
- Calls to gambling helplines and hotlines.
- Sign up for addiction treatment centers.
Here are some of the most reputable organizations that offer help for unhealthy gambling habits:
Author’s Tip
I recommend you start with Gam-Anon, which primarily focuses on assisting families and loved ones of individuals facing gambling problems.
They host group support meetings that provide a firsthand opportunity to learn from individuals dealing with gambling issues and gain insights into your child's perspective.
Other attendees can provide you with unique insights that make it easier for you to connect with your child.
Also, some Gam-Anon meetings may allow you to bring your child, which can prove invaluable.
Helplines & Privacy
Some problem gambling organizations can provide resources to children and teens without requiring parental consent or attendance.
Helplines are the best for this and are a common choice for young people, especially after the legalization of sports betting.
Governments enforce age restrictions and verification measures to prevent underage gambling. According to the online gambling regulation, casinos must protect vulnerable individuals.
In a Nutshell
Licensed casinos must prevent users from placing bets with real money until after they verify their identity and prove they are of legal age.
Online Age Verification
In online casinos, the most effective way to combat underage gambling is through the KYC (Know Your Customer) process:
- Verify the age and identity of each player by asking them to provide government-issued IDs, social security numbers, or national identification numbers.
- Ascertain whether the identity documents the user used to sign up are legit and valid.
- Verify the source of the user's funds, often by examining bank statements.
- Confirm the user's location to ensure they can legally gamble in the casino's jurisdiction.
- Establish proof of residence (e.g., via utility bills).
Liveness Verification
Liveness verification is a powerful extra security step that casinos can use to stop underage gambling.
It involves users providing a live video of themselves during verification, which is much harder to fake than using just an ID.
Age Verification In Land-Based Casinos
The law requires physical casinos to safeguard minors from gambling through methods such as:
- Deny entry to those without a legitimate valid photo ID stating their date of birth.
- Restrict entry to adults only and prevent them from being accompanied by underage individuals.
- Train their staff to spot fake IDs.
- Implement procedures for repeated underage gambling attempts, including warnings, reporting to authorities, and providing problem gambling information.
Employment
It is illegal for casinos to employ children to work near gaming machines while they are functioning.
What Is the Legal Gambling Age?
The legal gambling age varies by jurisdiction and gambling type. It's usually either 18 or 21 years old. For instance:
| Region | Legal Gambling Age |
| United Kingdom | 18 |
| Spain | 18 |
| France | 18 |
| Belgium | 21 |
| Germany | 18-21, depending on the casino |
| Italy | 18 |
| Portugal | 18-25, depending on the casino |
| Russia | 18 |
| Greece | 23 |
| Canada | 18-19, depending on the state |
| Mexico | 18 |
| United States | 21* |
| Australia | 18 |
| Latin America | 18* |
| Japan | 20 |
*Each state can set its own legal gambling age, as long as it complies with federal regulations.
Legal Punishment for Underage Gambling
Penalties for underage gambling vary by state and may encompass:
- Confiscation of winnings and account closures.
- Requiring them to pay fines.
- Adding criminal charges to their criminal record.
- Jail time or probation.
- Mandatory community service.
- Blacklisting from all casinos.
- Suspending their driver's license for six months.
Given the legal consequences of underage gambling, early intervention is all the more critical.
The reality is that while we can't shield our children from every risk, they could find a way to gamble without our knowledge.
What you can do, though, is equip them with the knowledge of the dangers associated with gambling and the support necessary to make informed choices.
Open communication, setting a good example, and utilizing responsible gambling resources are key to guiding children away from underage gambling temptations.
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