Most gamblers do not develop gambling disorders. However, young people are especially vulnerable. Parents need to provide their children with information regarding the dangers of becoming addicted to gambling. They can teach them the signs associated with the progression of the addiction. This knowledge will provide them with information to make informed decisions.

It is becoming easier for young people to develop gambling disorders, in part due to changes in the law allowing online betting, the prolific increase of online platforms, and aggressive marketing campaigns. Football is one of the most popular sports for gamblers. The season climaxes with the Super Bowl, the second-most highly bet event, second to The World Cup. Approximately $16 billion dollars was bet on Super Bowl LVII played on February 12, 2023.

Now is the time for parental involvement. Before addressing gambling issues with their children, parents need to know the extent of gambling associated with youth and sports betting. A recent study of young people between the ages of 18 and 22 showed that the majority bet on at least one sports event and a quarter bet on three or more sports events during the previous year. More than half of the participants bet on live games. Not surprisingly, more than a fourth of the respondents used computers or mobile apps. Approximately the same number bet on daily fantasy sports electronically. The amount of money bet varied between $1 and $50.

Parents also need to know the danger signs associated with developing a gambling addiction. The following list provides parents with basic information regarding the problems associated with gambling disorders:

• Preoccupied with gambling.
• Chasing the thrill by gambling more money.
• Not able to cut down or quit gambling.
• Using gambling to combat depression and anxiety.
• Gambling to escape life’s normal problems.
• Lying to hide gambling.
• Experiencing problems with school, relationships or work due to gambling.
• Borrowing money to gamble.

Also, parents need to know there is help for people with gambling disorders. The National Problem Gambling Helpline is 1-800-522-4700, is available 24/7 and is 100 percent confidential. This hotline connects callers to local health and government organizations that can assist with gambling addiction.  Problem gamblers can also contact Gamblers Anonymous, a 12-step program, at 1-855-222-5542. The website for Gamblers’ Anonymous includes hotlines for each state and listings for virtual and in-person meetings for each state.

People with gambling problems also impact the lives of family members and friends. Gam-Anon (1-718-352-1671), a 12-step program, provides help for family members and friends. Family members and friends addicted to gambling can contact Gam-Anon’s website for additional contact information including hotlines, meeting schedules and more. They can attend in-person or ZOOM Gam-Anon meetings.

Parents can use this information to educate their children regarding gambling and the possibility of developing a gambling disorder. Furnished with facts about gambling, young people are prepared to make better decisions in gambling situations and to discount peer pressure.

Kevin Synnott is a professor in the College of Business at Eastern Connecticut State University.