Rising Number of Young Bettors Linked to Increase in Problem Gambling

As sports betting continues its expansion across the United States, a pressing concern among officials is the notable rise of problem gambling among younger adults, particularly males under 25. This demographic, prone to risky behaviors, often finds itself betting money they don’t have or making impulsive wagers. Brendan Dwyer, director of research at Virginia Commonwealth University’s (VCU) Center for Sport Leadership, highlights these troubling trends. With the football season—from September to February—expected to generate a staggering $35 billion in legal bets this year, as reported by the American Gaming Association, the urgency to address the issue has never been more pronounced.

Virginia, where sports betting was legalized in 2021, sees football as one of the most popular sports for wagers. In the fiscal year 2023 alone, the Virginia Lottery reported nearly $69 million in tax revenue from sports betting.

Virginia, where sports betting was legalized in 2021, sees football as one of the most popular sports for wagers. In the fiscal year 2023 alone, the Virginia Lottery reported nearly $69 million in tax revenue from sports betting. This growth is a reflection of a national trend where sports betting revenue significantly boosts state budgets. The American Psychological Association (APA) has identified people in their early 20s as the fastest-growing group of gamblers, with nearly two-thirds of adolescents aged 12 to 18 having already experienced some form of gambling. Early exposure to gambling can increase the risk of addiction and mental health issues, an alarming fact that experts are keen to address.