Gambling Addiction among Teenagers: Risk Factors, Protective Factors, Prevention

Abstract

Gambling has recently become one of the major public health problems. Although most efforts are focused on adult gamblers, there is growing concern about teenagers and young adults being more vulnerable to gambling addiction. Gambling practices and opportunities have evolved to the point where they are widely available and seen as a socially acceptable form of entertainment while becoming increasingly attractive to young people. My aim in this paper was to identify risk factors, protective factors in gambling addiction in adolescents, and prevention methods for this type of addiction. With the help of data obtained from studies and specialized literature, I was able to highlight the most important features of this addiction among teenagers. Male sex, young age, alcohol and drug consumption, depression, and poor academic performance were identified as risk factors for gambling. In terms of protective factors, parental supervision, and high socioeconomic status are recognized. Considering that there is a significant prevalence of adolescent gambling and numerous adverse effects associated with it, prevention efforts such as awareness programs and a healthy family environment can be helpful.