A new study by the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) reveals that young men are the most vulnerable group to develop gambling problems in the USA. The study, which surveyed over 28,000 adults across 44 states, found that 13.6% of men aged 18 to 24 met the criteria for problem gambling, compared to 2.3% of women in the same age group.
What is problem gambling?
Problem gambling is defined as gambling behavior that causes significant harm to the individual, their family, or their community. Problem gambling can affect a person’s physical, mental, social, and financial well-being. Some of the common signs of problem gambling include:
- Spending more time or money on gambling than intended
- Chasing losses or trying to win back money
- Lying or hiding gambling activities from others
- Borrowing money or selling assets to gamble
- Neglecting work, school, or personal responsibilities
- Feeling anxious, depressed, or suicidal because of gambling
- Experiencing conflicts or relationship breakdowns due to gambling
Why are young men more at risk?
The study suggests that several factors may contribute to the higher risk of problem gambling among young men. Some of these factors are:
- Greater exposure and access to gambling opportunities, especially online and mobile platforms
- Higher levels of impulsivity, sensation-seeking, and risk-taking behavior
- Lower levels of awareness and help-seeking behavior
- Greater influence of peer pressure and social norms
- Less social support and coping skills
What can be done to prevent and treat problem gambling?
The NCPG recommends that more efforts are needed to prevent and treat problem gambling among young men. Some of the possible actions are:
- Increasing public education and awareness campaigns about the risks and harms of gambling
- Providing more screening and referral services for problem gambling in schools, colleges, workplaces, and health care settings
- Enhancing responsible gambling practices and policies by gambling operators and regulators
- Expanding access and availability of affordable and effective treatment and recovery programs for problem gamblers and their families
- Supporting research and evaluation of problem gambling prevention and intervention strategies
The NCPG also urges anyone who is concerned about their own or someone else’s gambling behavior to contact the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700 or visit www.ncpgambling.org for confidential and free support.
