A slew of apps and games that simulate sports and casino betting are gaining popularity among children.
Why it matters: The line between gaming and gambling is getting blurrier — and social betting, which involves no real money, can lead kids to the real thing, experts say.
The big picture: "Gambling has become normalized in our society," says Jeff Derevensky, a professor of psychiatry at McGill University and director of the International Centre for Youth Gambling Problems and High-Risk Behaviors. "We’re seeing a migration and an integration between gaming and gambling."
What's happening: Sports betting is one of the fastest growing parts of the gambling industry, and that trend is reflected in the social betting world.
The stakes: "There’s a massive exposure effect," says Whyte. "There’s a habituation and grooming effect."
Studies have shown that kids who engage in social betting games are likelier to develop gambling problems later in life.
Yes, but: The solution isn't necessarily to do away with these apps, but for parents to be more aware of what their kids are doing, says Timothy Fong, a co-director of the Gambling Studies Program at UCLA.
Editor's note: This story originally published on Feb. 10.
About Author
