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The Gambling Authority of Ireland (GRAI) found that gambling problem more likely among people exposed to gambling as children.
The study, which conducted by ESRI’s Behavioral Research Unitfound that rates of problem gambling were significantly higher among people who gambled as childrenwhose parents gamble, or whose parents have positive gambling attitudes.
The research was conducted from anonymous online responses, from more than 1,600 adults. The participants’ current gambling behavior was compared to their childhood experiences.
Did you know?
Gambling before the age of 18 almost doubles the likelihood of problem gambling in adulthood.
If you feel that Gambling is a problem for you or a loved one, advice and information on supports is available at: https://t.co/wVU6JMsuw3 pic.twitter.com/BUuSann3ZV
— Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (@GambRegIRL) November 19, 2025
It was in comparisons that a strong link was revealed, with those who gambled as a child almost twice as likely to suffer from a gambling problem. Having a parent who gambled also increased the likelihood of problem gambling, by one-third, while parents’ gambling behaviors had a similarly significant effect.
In this instance, ‘problem gambling’ is called when gambling disrupts and harms a person’s life and can have a negative impact on their well-being, social circles, and finances.
The link to problem gambling established by childhood gambling
For people both gambled as children and have a parent who gambles a lot, they are four times more likely to suffer from a gambling problem.
In the sample, the majority participated in some form of gambling when under the age of 18. The most commonly found types included scratch cards, horse or dog betting, slot machines, gambling among friends, bingos, and lotteries.
Anne Marie Caulfield, CEO of the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland, said, “This research provides clear evidence of the long-term potential harm that can result from childhood gambling exposure.
“This 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 of our youth, their parents, and guardians of gambling-related harm.”
With the report now published, GRAI also shared advice for parents on how to approach the subject of gambling and its dangers to their children.
Featured Image: AI generated by Ideogram
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