Gambling among teenagers is a growing problem : NPR
NPR • • general
Key Points:
- A growing number of young boys in the U.S. are developing gambling addictions, often starting with seemingly harmless online activities linked to video games and social media.
- A Common Sense Media survey found that 36% of boys aged 11 to 17 gambled in the past year, highlighting the widespread nature of the issue.
- The 2018 Supreme Court ruling legalizing sports betting in many states has contributed to a massive increase in gambling opportunities, especially on mobile devices, making it easier for underage users to engage in betting.
- Addiction counselors report that gambling problems often begin in early adolescence and worsen over time, with many young people unaware of the risks or warning signs.
- Parents and educators are raising alarms and forming support groups as they confront the challenge of protecting children from the pervasive and often hidden dangers of online gambling.
