Gambling addiction has increased among young people and adolescents
A few years ago, the most representative age profile of a pathological gambler was a married man between 35 and 45. Currently, according to the Spanish Federation of Rehabilitated Gambling Players (FEJAR), “young people between 18 and 25, students or unemployed individuals without family responsibilities, are arriving at associations across the country.”
The emergence of new technologies in the sector, the legalization of online gambling in 2012, and the increase in the offer and sponsorship of betting houses have caused a boom in gambling addiction among young people and even adolescents over the last six years.
The main difference between adolescents and adults is the type of gambling. In most households, the new trend of online gambling is appearing. In this regard, parents lack information and do not know what limitations to set. Therefore, the misuse of new technologies is a risk factor for developing a gambling addiction.
Currently, computer-based games predominate over casinos, bingo halls, or slot machines. However, the problem is not the games themselves, but how they are used. Therefore, it all begins the moment the first mobile phone or console is acquired, at approximately 14 years of age.
According to data from the quarterly report published by the Directorate General for the Regulation of Gambling (DGO), the number of active registered online users in Spain during the first quarter of 2016 reached 550,452. Furthermore, this represents an increase of 6.84% compared to the previous quarter and 40.05% compared to the same quarter in 2015.
Online betting makes it very easy: you can lock yourself in your room, go online, enter your card number, and play in virtual casinos. This situation creates a dangerous isolation because there is no external pressure pushing the individual to go out and socialize. Unless loved ones or family notice.
Common profile of the pathological gambler
- Difficulty managing emotions
- Shy
- Poor social relationships
- Complicated family relationships
In the adolescent profile, the family is a key factor: if they live in a difficult family environment, they end up isolating themselves and taking refuge in gambling.
Gambling addiction can be related to other personality disorders, but impulsivity is the main characteristic. Games that involve visual stimuli and promote immediacy are more attractive to this type of pathological gambler.
How to quit gambling
The treatment of gambling addiction and new technologies must be carried out by consulting professionals to receive an appropriate diagnosis. And in no case should it be ignored. The CC Adicciones model maintains a high recovery rate, well above the average of other treatments, with 86% of patients recovered. You can request information without obligation by calling 902 400 426.
