Cothrum: What online gambling is doing to young men
An increasing number of young men are engaging in online gambling, raising concerns about its potential financial and societal harms.Summary
Dallas Cothrum expresses concern over the surge in online gambling, particularly among young men, fueled by a 2018 Supreme Court ruling and pervasive advertising. He notes observations from his daughters and son, who report widespread gambling among their peers, often using their parents’ identities. Studies reveal a significant rise in online sportsbook accounts (27% of men) and gambling app usage (19% of Americans), with frequent wagering becoming habitual. Research indicates negative financial consequences, including increased debt, declining credit scores, and higher bankruptcy rates, especially among young men in low-income areas. Cothrum argues that the normalization of gambling through fantasy sports and constant advertising is creating a new generation of vulnerable individuals, potentially diminishing the values of teamwork and sportsmanship.
(Source：The Dallas Morning News)