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Teenage gambling is a serious social problem. Consider the key figures and findings of research in Australia.

1. Underage gambling

16% of 16-17 year olds spent money on gambling in a year: 1 in 5 boys and 1 in 8 girls.
5% of 16-17-year-olds participated in illegal sports and racing bets, 2% in pokies, casinos and keno (about 9,000 teenagers).
In the general population of 16-17 years - 1 in 6 is classified as "at-risk" or "problem gambler."

2. The scale of the growing audience

30-40% of minors (under 20) declare rates online last year, over 900,000 people.
12-17-year-olds were responsible for about A $18.4 million in total spending by teenagers on excitement.

3. Risk factors and correlators

Teenagers whose parents or friends play regularly are 6% more likely to try betting.
Playing "gambling-like" video games (loot boxes) are 2 times more likely to switch to gambling with real money.
Participation in gambling is associated with smoking, alcohol and bullying: adolescents involved in risky behavior bet more often.

4. Implications of early engagement

The early practice of betting forms a pattern of immediate reward, which leads to violations of self-control and "catching up" of losses.
Research shows that teenagers with problems in school and relationships are more likely to experience the negative effects of gambling - worsening academic performance and rising anxiety.

5. Cost to society

The total losses of adolescents 12-17 years old amounted to A $18.4 million, and 18-19 years old - A $213 million per year.
The potential future costs of treatment and social support for "at-risk" adolescents are estimated at hundreds of millions of dollars annually.

6. Intervention and prevention measures

1. Strict age verification by online platforms (pre-registration KYC).
2. Educational programs of financial literacy and informed decisions in schools.
3. Restricting gambling advertising on platforms where teenagers are present.
4. Family support: parental control of applications, open dialogue about risks.

Result

Teenage excitement is not uncommon: every sixth teenager is involved in risks, 10% is on the verge of addiction, and the costs of minors reach tens of millions. Strict age restrictions, access control and educational work are necessary to reduce this threat.