THE GROWING POPULARITY OF ONLINE GAMBLING:
Risks for Children in Vulnerable Homes

The surge in online gambling has captivated audiences globally, with the market expected to skyrocket to $110.9 billion in 2024. Its current valuation of around $88.65 billion reflects rapid growth across various regions (Statista Market Insights). While gambling can be entertaining, it also poses unique risks, particularly for children growing up in homes impacted by addiction.

Increased Risks for Vulnerable Children

Children living in homes where addiction is prevalent often face unique vulnerabilities that elevate the risk of problem gambling:

• Lack of Supervision: Children in homes with addiction are more likely to spend long periods unsupervised due to caregivers’ preoccupation with their own addictive behaviors. This lack of oversight makes it easier for children to access gambling apps and websites, often underestimating their risks.
• Increased Risk of Family Violence: A meta study evaluating gambling harm experiences published in the May 2023 issue of Journal of Gambling Studies reports a convergence of evidence supporting that parental problem gambling can lead to psychological harm in children. The study reports 7–43% of parents with gambling problems have perpetrated child physical abuse
• Genetic Predisposition: Research indicates a genetic predisposition to addiction. If a parent struggles with compulsive gambling or other substance misuse issues/substance use disorder – and with great vulnerability that the two addictions to co-exist – the likelihood increases that their children may develop similar tendencies.
• Emotional Coping Mechanism: Growing up in an environment affected by addiction can lead to emotional challenges. Gambling may become a coping mechanism to manage trauma, stress, anxiety or neglect.
• Normalization of Risk-Taking: Children accustomed to seeing addictive behaviors may grow up normalizing risk-taking and viewing gambling as a natural form of entertainment, making them susceptible to problematic gambling behaviors.

Warning Signs of Problematic Gambling

Parents and guardians should be aware of these signs in children who might be at risk:

• Excessive Screen Time: Spending extended hours on gaming platforms, often beyond reasonable limits.
• Financial Concerns: Borrowing money, asking for an allowance early, or making unexplained online purchases.
• Academic Decline: A noticeable drop in school performance or skipping classes to gamble.
• Mood Swings: Displaying sudden irritability, anxiety, or depression.

The rapid growth of online gambling brings new challenges, particularly for children in homes impacted by addiction. Families must remain vigilant about the warning signs of problematic gambling while maintaining open communication to create healthy gaming boundaries. If warning signs emerge, reaching out to support groups, counselors, and child-focused organizations is crucial to address potential issues early and effectively. Addressing gambling-related challenges requires vigilance and early intervention. By connecting with support groups, educational resources, and professional counseling, parents and guardians can better safeguard children and adolescents who may be at risk. Early intervention ensures that they receive the right help before problematic behaviors take root.

Resources for Families Facing Online Gambling Challenges

If you suspect that a child may have developed a problem with online gambling, or if you’re a parent concerned about your child who may be at risk due to living in a home impacted by addiction, there are numerous support networks and resources available. Here are some places to seek help:

Support Networks for Children and Parents

1. National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG)
   • Offers resources, a national helpline (1-800-522-4700), and treatment referrals.
   • Provides educational tools specifically designed to identify and address gambling issues among youth.
2. Gam-Anon and Gamblers Anonymous
   • Gam-Anon: For family members and friends impacted by someone else’s gambling.
   • Gamblers Anonymous: Support meetings and resources for individuals struggling with gambling addiction.
3. National Association for Children of Addiction (NACoA)
   • Non-profit focused on helping children impacted by familial addiction.
   • Provides training, resources, and awareness campaigns.
4. Local Counseling Services – Seek guidance from local mental health professionals or child psychologists specializing in addiction and family therapy.
5. School Counseling Departments – Many school counselors are equipped to identify behavioral changes and can connect families to external support.

Educational Resources for Awareness and Prevention

1. The UK Safer Gambling Hub – Offers online educational materials on the risks of gambling, self-assessment tools, and guidelines for parents.
2. NetSmartz (National Center for Missing & Exploited Children) – Online resources to educate children on staying safe while using technology.
3. Youth Gambling Awareness Program (YGAP) – Check with your local YMCA, who may be involved with this program and provide workshops and educational materials to raise awareness among children, parents, and educators.