Shocking Warning from NY: Children as Young as 11, Addicted to Gambling

A New York, US, clinical psychologist has revealed a highly disturbing finding: more children and young adults struggle with gambling addiction, and some patients are as young as 11. The doctor’s findings raise further concerns about minors’ access to online betting. Age Restrictions, No Longer a Shield Dr. Michael Adler, who runs Rockland Addictions in New City, Rockland County, said children are getting around age restrictions by using smartphones and tablets connected to their parents’ payment methods. Adler, who specializes in gambling addiction, substance abuse, and emotional disorders, also talked about how treating younger patients is prone to be particularly challenging given their limited impulse control and ability to understand the true financial consequences of their actions. Children may also assume their parents will step in to cover gambling debts, reducing their perception of the risks involved. Exposure to Sports Betting, Another Reason for Concerns Adler asked parents to talk openly with their children about gambling, warning them because it is becoming more and more difficult to avoid betting-related messages, including during televised sports broadcasts. He also referred to fantasy football betting leagues as a potential catalyst that can create more problematic gambling behavior. The concerns come as online sports betting and gambling-related content have become more visible to younger audiences. While age restrictions are intended to prevent minors from gambling, access to devices and payment accounts belonging to adults can create opportunities to bypass those safeguards. The Warning Signs to Keep an Eye On The signs of a possible gambling problem can include constantly thinking about betting, spending increasingly large amounts of money, or needing to wager more to experience the same excitement. Other warning signs include becoming irritable when attempting to stop, repeatedly failing to cut back, lying about gambling activity or debt, and experiencing financial, relationship, or legal problems as a result. Adler’s warning highlights the importance of early conversations between parents and children about gambling risks, particularly as betting promotions and sports-related gambling content reach broad audiences. In the United States, people seeking help with gambling problems can call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit the National Council on Problem Gambling online.