It's possible your teen could be gambling. Over one in four 11th graders reported having every placed a bet or gambling on money or possessions.
Ways teens gamble can include:
- Learning card games from parents or friends
- Having friendly poker night games with friends
- Being gifted scratch offs or lottery tickets
- Driving to bordering states that have lower casino age restrictions
- Placing bets on sports games
- Online or app betting
Gambling is not harmless. If you think your child may have a problem with gambling, we can help.
Online Gambling and Teens
Online gambling has fewer regulations, and it is anonymous. This can make it easier for teens to gamble online without an adult knowing.
Studies show problem gambling behaviors are more common in teens who gamble online. Online gambling was also associated with the use of alcohol and lower academic performance.
Signs of Gambling in Teens
Gambling can often be secretive and hard to identify. Warning signs that your child may be gambling include:5
- Begins to sell personal belongings
- Borrows money from family and friends and does no repay it
- Has large amounts of unexplained cash
- Has a great deal of unexplained debt
- Withdraws from his or her regular social groups and activities
- Spends hours on online or app gaming sites
- Obsession with sports scores may suggest a sports gambling habit exists
Gambling Risks
Some consequences for teen gambling additions include:
- Declining grades
- Habitual money problems
- Less time for family and friends
- Temptation to engage in illegal behavior to pay off gambling debts, leading to possible jail time
Talking to Your Child About Gambling
Youth usually begin gambling around adolescence (between ages 15-17). It's important to talk about gambling with them before then. Create a safe and supportive environment at home. This will help them feel comfortable coming to you with questions or concerns.
Make sure to set clear rules about gambling and other high-risk behaviors. Talk about what gambling is and the risks.
Have a young adult who is gambling? Visit Help for College Students for information and resources.
Resources
Talking with Children about Gambling PDF
Digital brochure from the Prevention, Treatment and Recovery Services with the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services.
What are the odds your teen is gambling? article
News article from Your Life Iowa about teen gambling habits.