As sports betting grows, so does concern about problem gambling in young adults
Sports betting's rise raises concerns about problem gambling among young adults, highlighting accessibility, normalization, and risks.Summary
As more states legalize mobile sports betting, easy access via smartphones has made gambling increasingly common among teenagers and young adults, raising alarms about problem gambling. Interviews with young users like Atticus Smith show how apps such as Fliff provide a risk‑free feel that can lead to real‑money gambling, while media coverage, advertising, and social media influencers normalize betting and frame it as a form of investing. Surveys indicate that a significant share of young men and adults under 45 have bet on sports, and many first gamble before the legal age, yet age‑specific data are scarce. Health professionals note a shift toward younger clients seeking help for online sports betting and day trading, and colleges are beginning to educate athletes about the risks, though outreach remains limited. Help is available through hotlines and websites such as 211 or 1‑800‑MYRESET and adeptme.org/problem‑gambling.
(Source：Portland Press Herald)