It’s easy to assume that the world of betting doesn’t touch the lives of young ones. Interestingly, a recent survey revealed that one in five individuals aged 10 to 17 had engaged in gambling activities within the last month. Research indicates that individuals who begin gambling at a younger age are more prone to developing issues related to it as they grow older. Engaging in conversations with your child about gambling and fostering an environment where they feel comfortable sharing their online activities can significantly lower the risk of future issues as they grow older.
Among the various gambling activities that attract the attention of young individuals aged 10 to 17, private bets, scratchcards, fruit machines, and playing cards stand out as the most prevalent choices. While these activities might appear innocuous, unchecked gambling can spiral into financial issues, academic challenges, social withdrawal, and even depression.
Moreover, numerous digital games feature elements that mimic the thrill of wagering, enticing young players to part with their money and embrace risk-taking behaviors. Since gaming is a favorite pastime for many young people today, it’s crucial to engage in conversations with your child about it, guiding them to make wise decisions if they choose to participate in these activities.
Just like any potentially uncomfortable topic—whether it’s about staying safe online or discussing intimate matters – the more you engage in the conversation, the easier it becomes to navigate. Instead of having a single, overwhelming discussion about gambling, it’s beneficial to engage in ongoing conversations about the risks and consequences. This way, your child will feel more at ease bringing up the topic with you. For instance, while enjoying a sports event together, you might discuss the betting commercials that pop up, or if a gambling ad plays on the radio, you could inquire about their thoughts on it.
Engaging your child in a conversation about their thoughts on gambling can be quite insightful before you share your perspective. This could be an excellent opportunity to clear up any misconceptions they might hold. Some might view it as merely a source of entertainment or believe that it’s something everyone participates in. Keep in mind that your responses to any inquiries can influence their comfort level in reaching out to you later about gaming, so it’s ideal to frame it as a conversation rather than a lecture!
When you encounter gambling advertisements, prompt your child to analyze how these activities are portrayed as enjoyable, thrilling, and trendy. Don’t forget that beneath the flashy promotions lies a company aiming to profit!
Discuss with your kid how they spend their money, and emphasize that gambling should never be seen as a strategy to earn money or recoup lost money. It may also be useful to point out that, in the end, “the house always wins,” which means that anybody who gambles is more likely to lose than win.
Gambling is often portrayed as a regular aspect of daily life with no negative consequences. So, it’s a good idea to talk to your youngster about the hazards and repercussions of gambling. For example, you may explain to them how gambling can lead to significant financial loss or how it can harm their health and friendships.
Engaging in a conversation with them about the games they enjoy playing online offers valuable insights into their grasp of gambling. For instance, are they engaging in games that feature loot boxes? These are like ‘treasure chests’ that require payment to unlock, holding the possibility of rewards within. Essentially, it’s a gamble for the child to see if the box will reveal what they desire.
Guide your children to recognize that engaging in games of chance is not a healthy method for dealing with negative feelings or boosting their self-esteem. Motivate them to engage in different activities that can enhance their mental health and overall wellbeing.
Loot boxes are virtual game items, often depicted as sealed boxes, that players can purchase with real money, offering mysterious rewards inside. While purchasing and unboxing loot boxes isn’t classified as gambling at the moment, research has revealed a link between specific types of gaming and gambling activities.
Back in early 2016, the Gambling Commission flagged loot boxes as a possible danger to kids and teens during a broader examination of worries related to video games and gambling elements. One of the primary issues is that the distinction between video gaming and wagering is becoming more and more indistinct.
It’s perfectly fine if your child occasionally opens a loot box, but it’s wise to monitor their activities and spending to ensure it stays within reasonable limits. Engaging in a discussion about loot boxes can reveal a lot about their allure. You might explore their feelings on the temptation to open these boxes and the frequency with which they actually yield the desired items.
What signs should I look for to determine if my child is struggling with gambling issues?
Gambling is often referred to as a ‘hidden addiction.’ This means that when someone develops a gambling problem, it can be challenging to recognize, especially when compared to more overtly addictive behaviors like substance abuse or excessive drinking. Yet, there are indicators to keep an eye on:
- If your child struggles to put down a game that revolves around betting or constantly brings it up in conversation.
- If they’re ignoring their studies or distancing themselves from their friends.
- If they’ve become disenchanted with past pastimes that once brought them joy.
- If they appear uneasy, concerned, remorseful, downcast, or easily annoyed.
- If they grow increasingly competitive and more eager to assert their correctness on various matters.
- If they start to act mysterious or overprotective when it comes to finances.
Gambling is becoming increasingly common among young individuals, with one in five aged 10-17 engaging in such activities. Popular forms include private bets, scratchcards, loot boxes in video games, and even platforms like Cryptoloko that attract attention. Early gambling can lead to serious issues like financial problems, academic struggles, social withdrawal, and depression. Engaging in open, ongoing conversations about gambling can help reduce these risks. Parents are encouraged to talk about gambling advertisements, online gaming, and financial habits, making it a dialogue rather than a lecture. Recognizing signs of gambling issues, such as secretive behavior or disengagement from usual activities, is crucial for timely intervention.