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Gambling in Young Adults Aged 17-24 Years: A Population-Based Study
Linda Hollén1, Rita Dörner2, Mark D Griffiths3
1Centre for Academic Child Health, Bristol Medical School, Bristol, BS8 1NU, UK.
Journal of Gambling Studies
|April 20, 2020
Summary
This study found that male gender, low IQ, external locus of control, and high sensation seeking predict regular gambling in young adults. Parental gambling and alcohol/smoking use were also associated with increased gambling behaviors.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Public Health
- Sociology
Background:
- Gambling behavior among young adults is a significant public health concern.
- Understanding the factors that lead to regular gambling is crucial for developing effective prevention and intervention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate gambling behavior in a UK cohort aged 17-24 years.
- To identify individual and familial antecedents of regular gambling in this age group.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC) cohort.
- Employed computer-administered gambling surveys at ages 17, 20, and 24 years.
- Conducted fully adjusted statistical models to determine predictors of regular gambling.
Main Results:
- Participation in gambling increased from age 17 to 20, stabilizing by age 24.
- Regular (weekly) gambling showed a strong male predominance.
- Key antecedents identified: male gender, low IQ, external locus of control, high sensation seeking, parental gambling, and maternal education.
- Online gambling and betting on horseraces increased significantly between ages 17-24.
- Regular gambling was associated with smoking and harmful alcohol use, but not depression.
Conclusions:
- Young adulthood is a critical period for the development of regular gambling habits.
- A combination of individual psychological traits, socioeconomic factors, and behavioral comorbidities contribute to regular gambling.
- Targeted interventions for young males and those with identified risk factors may be beneficial.
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