Problem gambling higher among those exposed to gambling as children

Problem gambling is much more likely among people exposed to gambling as children, according to research conducted by the ESRI’s Behavioural Research Unit. The study found that rates of problem gambling are significantly higher among people who gambled as children, whose parents gambled, or whose parents had positive attitudes towards gambling.

‘Problem gambling’ means that a person’s gambling disrupts and damages their life, with negative impacts on finances, wellbeing and social circles.

The research, commissioned by the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI), gathered anonymous online responses from a representative sample of more than 1,600 adults. The researchers compared current gambling behaviour with childhood experiences, controlling for social background.

The data revealed a strong link. Those who gambled as a child were almost twice as likely to suffer from problem gambling. Having a parent who gambled increased the likelihood of problem gambling by one third, while parental attitudes to gambling had a similarly large effect.

People who both gambled as children and had a parent who gambled a lot were four times more likely to suffer from problem gambling.

The majority of the sample had engaged in at least some form of gambling when under 18 years old. The most common forms were slot machines, scratch cards, horse or dog betting, gambling amongst friends, bingo and lotteries.

“These results demonstrate that childhood experiences of gambling have damaging effects on people’s lives as adults,” said Dr Shane Timmons, Senior Research Officer at the ESRI and report author. “Together with our best estimate that 1 in 30 adults in Ireland now struggles with problem gambling, these findings strengthen the case for regulation of gambling. We need to avoid normalising gambling among young people.”

Anne Marie Caulfield, CEO of the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland, said, “This research provides clear evidence of the long-term potential harms resulting from childhood exposure to gambling. It reinforces the importance of a well-regulated gambling sector that protects children and those vulnerable to gambling harm. It also points to the need for awareness and education among our young people, their parents, and guardians on gambling related harms.

To coincide with the release of this report, we have published advice for parents on how best to approach the topic of gambling and associated dangers with their children on our website. This advice was developed in collaboration with the HSE Addiction Services and provides a useful tool for parents.”