Hidden dangers of underage gambling
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Do you know that underage gambling is on the rise? With the increasing accessibility of online gambling platforms, lots of young people are falling victim to this dangerous habit. What exactly are the hidden dangers of underage gambling? Beyond the obvious financial implications, there are serious psychological and social consequences that often go unnoticed. From developing addictive behaviours to experiencing mental health issues, the impact on young individuals can be devastating.
In today’s digital age, the allure of gambling has expanded its reach to the younger generation, giving rise to the alarming issue of underage gambling. While many may dismiss it as harmless fun or a rite of passage, the hidden dangers of underage gambling are far more serious than one may think.
Underage gambling has become alarmingly prevalent in recent years. The rise of online gambling platforms has made it easier than ever for young people to access these activities due to the lack of awareness and understanding surrounding the risks involved. Many young people view gambling as a harmless form of entertainment or a way to make quick money whilst being unaware of the future consequences of their actions.
Professor Peter Olapegba, who is the chairman of Board of Trustees of Gamble Alert, stated: “Underage gambling must not be done because the underage are the generation of tomorrow.’’ While losing money can be devastating, it is often the psychological and social impacts that have the most lasting effects on young individuals. One of the greatest dangers of underage gambling is the development of addictive behaviours and its negative impacts on mental health. The brains of young people are still developing and they are more susceptible to becoming hooked on the thrill and excitement that gambling provides. Moreso, the stress and pressure that comes with financial losses can take a toll on their emotional wellbeing, leading to a decline in academic performance, strained relationships and even thoughts of self-harm.
Parents play a crucial role in preventing underage gambling. They are often the first line of defence in educating their children about the risks associated with gambling and setting boundaries. Open and honest conversations about the dangers of gambling should be initiated earlier, emphasising the importance of responsible decision-making. Parents should also actively monitor their children’s online activities and set age restrictions on devices to prevent them from accessing gambling websites. It is important for parents to lead by example and demonstrate responsible gambling behaviour themselves.
Section 34 of the National Lottery Act, 2005 stipulates that it is illegal for underage to be involved in betting. According to a report by the News Agency of Nigeria, the National Lottery Regulatory Commission in Nigeria has taken steps to curb underage gambling by introducing a new licensing framework that requires gaming operators to implement age verification procedures. However, the enforcement of these laws can be challenging, especially in the online space where age verification can be easily bypassed. It has also come to attention that some gaming retail outlets have flagrantly disregarded these rules and policies. They have failed to prioritise the wellbeing and safety of their customers and they have neglected due diligence and assessment.
Governments and regulatory authorities need to work collaboratively with online gambling platforms to implement effective age verification measures and ensure compliance with existing laws. Regulators should enforce strict laws and regulations as regards know your customer (KYC) procedures to ensure that gaming operators are following ethical practices and taking steps to prevent underage gambling. There should be implementation of stricter penalties for operators who fail to comply with age verification requirements. Also, advertising practices that glamorise gambling or make it seem like an easy way to make money should be prohibited. Gaming operators should implement comprehensive monitoring systems to ensure that underage individuals are not allowed to gamble. They should also up their enhanced due diligence game and should make sure that the 18+ sign is on their gaming websites.
Education plays a vital role in preventing underage gambling. By providing young people with accurate and comprehensive information about the risks associated with gambling, we can empower them to make informed decisions. It is important to educate young individuals about the odds of winning, the house advantage, and the fact that gambling is designed to favour the house. This knowledge will help them understand that gambling is not a reliable way to make money and that the risks far outweigh the potential rewards. There is the need for more awareness campaigns, sensitisation programmes and educational works to educate these young individuals on the risks and harms associated with gambling.
In conclusion, the hidden dangers of underage gambling are far-reaching and can have a lasting impact on young individuals. By equipping young people with the knowledge and tools to understand the risks associated with gambling, we can empower them to make reasonable decisions and avoid the pitfalls. It is also important to involve parents, schools, and communities in the effort to raise awareness about underage gambling and provide support to those in need. With ongoing education and awareness efforts, we can work towards a future where young people are protected from the dangers of underage gambling and can make responsible choices for a healthier and happier life.
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