LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) — With the Super Bowl just a week away, experts say now is an important time to talk about kids and online gambling.
A recent report from Common Sense Media shows gambling is a common behavior among many adolescents. More than one-third of boys ages 11-17 reported gambling in the past year. Experts worry many young people may be forming risky relationships with gambling before they fully understand the consequences. They say exposure often comes through places kids already spend time — including video games, YouTube and social media.
The report also found boys who gamble spend an average of $54. But experts say that number hides a divide, with higher-loss gamblers showing different patterns of engagement and spending. Some of those teens are even using their parents' credit cards without permission. Experts say access to online platforms makes it easier than ever for minors to gamble, and parents should watch for warning signs.
"Their grades can slip. They may change friend groups. You might see that their behaviors change. Maybe they're more agitated than normal or become angry very easily. They're withdrawing from family activities or things with friends. They're not doing the things that they normally enjoyed, they are maybe more secretive about being alone or their time spent on social media or video game-type activities," said Bethan Miller, associate director, Prevention Awareness Support (PASS).
Experts recommend parents talk openly with their children and reach out to the Problem Gambling Network of Ohio for additional resources.
