With the rise of adolescent gambling, experts are calling for the introduction of gambling literacy programs in schools. Isaac Rose-Berman, a sports bettor and fellow at the American Institute for Boys and Men, emphasizes that schools are an effective platform to reach a significant number of young individuals.
Recent studies indicate that American teenagers, especially young males, are engaging in gambling activities more frequently. As participation grows, so does the potential for harm. To safeguard youth, some professionals propose integrating gambling literacy and personal finance education into school curriculums.
Rose-Berman, who began gambling before reaching the legal age of 21, acknowledges the excitement and risks involved in gambling. He believes that high schools are an ideal target for these programs for two main reasons: the need for early intervention and the structured learning environment that schools provide.
Research has shown that gambling addiction can begin during adolescence, a time when young minds are still developing. Sarah Clark, a researcher from the University of Michigan, highlights that teenagers often feel invulnerable and are more inclined to take risks. The stigma surrounding gambling has diminished significantly since the legalization of sports betting in the U.S., which has now become a popular pastime.
According to the American Gaming Association, prior to 2018, Americans spent approximately $4.9 billion annually on sports betting. This figure is projected to surge to $166 billion by 2025. Currently, over half of the U.S. population has access to mobile sportsbooks or casinos, leading to a proliferation of gambling advertisements.
A recent analysis by Common Sense Media reveals that over a third of boys aged 11 to 17 in the U.S. will gamble before they turn 18, with the figure climbing to nearly half for 17-year-olds. While data on female gambling is limited, it is expected that more girls will engage in gambling due to the rise of online casinos and games targeting female audiences.
Many boys encounter gambling-like mechanics through online gaming, with almost one in four engaging in betting-like behavior. Although most boys report that gambling ads do not influence their decisions, nearly one in eight still participate in traditional gambling activities, such as sports betting and card games.
Furthermore, gambling is often a social activity among young men, with over 80% of those with gambling friends also participating. This trend highlights the need for educational initiatives to address the rising gambling addiction among teens, as noted in a recent NPR article.