Children are particularly vulnerable to gambling-related harm due to their cognitive and emotional development. During puberty, the brain undergoes significant changes. The part responsible for decision-making and impulse control is still developing, which means they are more likely to engage in risky behaviours like gambling. They may:
- Struggle to understand odds and probability
- Believe they can control outcomes
- Be easily influenced by peers, family members, or targeted marketing
In the UK, 31% of 11–16-year-olds spent their own money on gambling in the past 12 months (Gambling Commission, 2023). 0.7% of 11–16-year-olds are classified as problem gamblers, and 2.4% are considered at risk of gambling harm (Gambling Commission, 2023).
Why Young People Gamble
Young people may gamble for several reasons:
- Curiosity or thrill-seeking – they may see gambling as exciting or fun.
- Peer pressure – friends may encourage gambling behaviour or normalise it.
- Escape or coping mechanism – some young people use gambling to deal with stress, anxiety, or difficult home situations.
- Family influence – children of parents who gamble are more likely to gamble themselves.
- Access through gaming – loot boxes, skins betting, and in-game purchases can blur the line between gaming and gambling.
Types of Gambling Among Young People
Gambling doesn’t always look like going to a casino. Common forms of youth gambling include:
- Online gambling (through unregulated websites or using parents’ accounts)
- Sports betting
- Scratch cards and lottery tickets
- Social casino games that simulate gambling without money but can lead to real gambling
- Gaming-related gambling (e.g., loot boxes in games like FIFA or Fortnite, or third-party skin betting in games like CS:GO). Over 50% of young gamers have used loot boxes, which are considered a form of gambling by many experts and regulators.
- Betting among friends (e.g., on video games, sports, or challenges)
Risks and Consequences
Gambling at a young age is associated with several potential harms:
- Mental health problems, including depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem and even suicide
- Poor academic performance and school dropout
- Financial issues, such as debt or stealing to fund gambling
- Addiction, as early exposure increases the risk of developing a gambling addiction in adulthood
- Social isolation or strained relationships
Signs a Young Person Might Be Struggling with Gambling
- Preoccupation with money or secretive behaviour around devices
- Borrowing or stealing money
- Sudden mood swings or irritability
- Declining performance at school
- Withdrawing from friends and family
- Lying about how time or money is spent
Where can my child get support with their gambling?
Several UK organisations offer support for young people and families:
- National Problem Gambling Clinic (NHS)
Accepts referrals for individuals aged 13 and older with complex gambling issues who living in England or Wales. - GamCare Young People’s Support Service
Provides confidential 1-to-1 support for people aged 11–18 affected by gambling, including issues linked to gaming and cryptocurrency. Also supports families and professionals. - Beacon Counselling Trust (BCT)
Offers the Sometimes It’s More Than a Game programme—free workshops for youth aged 10–21, as well as sessions for parents and professionals. - YGAM’s Parent Hub
A website with resources, expert guidance, and practical tools to help parents understand and manage the risks of gambling and gaming in their children’s lives.