Online Gambling & Teens: Risks of Social Media Influence & New Trends
The world of gambling is undergoing a dramatic shift, moving away from traditional brick-and-mortar establishments and increasingly taking root in the digital realm. Online platforms, mobile applications, and social media networks like TikTok, Twitch, and Telegram are reshaping how gambling is promoted and consumed, particularly among younger populations.
A New Landscape for Gambling
This transition isn’t merely a change of venue; it’s a fundamental alteration in accessibility. According to Juan José Lamas, the therapeutic director of the Asociación Gallega de Jugadores Anónimos (Agaja), influencers and Telegram groups are actively encouraging adolescents to participate in gambling. These spaces share advice and promotional messages, effectively replacing traditional advertising methods. Lamas highlights a critical gap in regulation, stating, “There are legislative loopholes in social media. In 2020, advertising in commercial communications was reduced, but nothing could be done regarding social media. We have the phenomena of influencers or chats doing what television channels or newspapers used to do.”
The demographic of the typical gambler has also evolved. In the 1990s, the predominant player was a man between 50 and 60 years old frequenting slot machines. Now, the landscape has shifted towards younger players.
Shifting Demographics and Emerging Trends
Recent data from the 2023 Informe de Galicia survey on drug use in secondary education in Spain reveals that 10.6% of students aged 14-18 have gambled online in the past year, a figure nearly identical to the national average of 10.7%. However, participation in in-person gambling is even higher, with 18.5% of Galician students reporting involvement, compared to a national average of 17.7%. Men continue to gamble at higher rates than women, both online (17.1% vs. 3.6%) and in person (26.4% vs. 9.9%).
Agaja’s data reflects this gender disparity, with 28% of their male patients aged 14-18 and 19% female. Among adults, the numbers are even more skewed, with 90% male and 10% female. Currently, sports betting is the most popular form of gambling, though women are increasingly engaging in lotteries, scratch cards, and bingo.
New incentives, such as loot boxes in video games, are also contributing to the problem, potentially normalizing gambling behaviors at a younger age.
Regulatory Responses and Future Outlook
recognising the evolving landscape, the Xunta of Galicia approved the creation of the Observatorio Galego do Xogo in October. This organization will provide objective data to inform public policy and promote responsible gambling practices, with a constitutional session planned within six months. The regulation of online gambling is stricter than that of in-person gambling, but the increased availability remains a concern. The prevalence of gambling appears to be similar in both rural and urban areas, as access to mobile devices and the internet is widespread.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is driving the increase in gambling among young people?
The shift to online platforms and the influence of social media, particularly influencers and groups on platforms like TikTok, Twitch, and Telegram, are driving the increase in gambling among young people.
Are there differences in gambling habits between men and women?
Yes, men continue to gamble at higher rates than women, both online and in person. However, women are increasingly participating in games like lotteries, scratch cards, and bingo.
What is the Observatorio Galego do Xogo?
The Observatorio Galego do Xogo is a new organization created by the Xunta of Galicia to provide objective data on gambling and inform public policy, promote responsible gambling, and address gender equality in the sector.
As technology continues to evolve, will regulations be able to keep pace with the changing ways young people are exposed to and engage with gambling?