Parents of teenage kids admit they might not know if their children are betting online, according to a recent poll conducted by the University of Michigan’s C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital. 

The poll, which surveyed 923 adults with at least one child between the ages of 14 and 18, shared that 16% of respondents thought they “probably would not know” if their teenage child gambled online. Another 30% said they “think they might know,” leaving 46% of respondents unsure if their teenage kids wager online. 

Only 2% of parents believe their kids have used an online gambling platform, while just 25% of respondents have spoken with their teenage child about online sports betting and online casinos. Responsible gambling experts have long preached that parents and educators should speak to children about the dangers of gambling and the importance of responsible gambling. 

Accessibility a concern

Responsible gambling experts worry about easy access to online gambling platforms, as tech-savvy teenagers may find ways to illegally gamble without anyone knowing. This can lead to potential problem gambling behaviors. 

“Teens and young adults may have a difficult time going into a casino unnoticed but they have easy access to a variety of betting and gambling options,” said Mott Poll co-director Sarah Clark, M.P.H. “This expanded accessibility has increased exposure to the risks of underage betting, but there is little regulation or conversation around this problem.”

The survey also found that 31% of parents either participate or have another adult in the house participate in online, in-person, or social betting. Another 63% say they’ve seen or heard online sports betting or casino advertisements in the last 12 months. It’s likely some teenagers are exposed to gambling through advertisements or family member participation. 

Clark suggests that parents use gambling exposure as a chance to discuss the topic with their teenagers. 

“The ubiquity of gambling ads may offer parents an opportunity to initiate open, productive conversations with their teen about the risks of gambling and its prevalence in their social circles,” Clark said.

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